Historic agreement to increase social housing in Newcastle and boost jobs

Abstract

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the NSW Government and the City of Newcastle is set to increase social housing in the Newcastle Local Government Area as well as support more than 100 local jobs.

This week the MoU was formally endorsed by the Minister for Water, Property and Housing, Melinda Pavey, and Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes, following Council’s unanimous endorsement of the MoU at the October Ordinary Council meeting.

The objective of the MoU is to deliver improved outcomes in social and affordable housing for the people of Newcastle. To help achieve this the City of Newcastle will work closely with the NSW Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) to identify priority areas in need of social housing and fast track projects.

An important feature of the MOU will see the City of Newcastle supporting LAHC’s redevelopment program through the provision of an annual payment equivalent to the rates paid by LAHC in the Newcastle LGA for the next three years.

The payment, which will be matched by LAHC, will be reinvested into funding new social housing in the region during the same period.