IMPROVED HOUSING SERVICES AT INNOVATIVE CAMPERDOWN PROJECT

August 30, 2011

Minister for Family and Community Services Pru Goward today visited the innovative Camperdown Project currently under construction which will help homeless people move from the street to a home.

Minister Goward was joined by Rosanne Haggerty, the founder and President of Common Ground, a not-for-profit organisation that was established to end homelessness in New York City.

Rosanne flew into Sydney this week to see the progress on the Camperdown project.

“The Camperdown Project takes great strides in addressing homelessness in Sydney, and builds on the NSW Government’s key social policy principles of community partnership, integrated services, early intervention and prevention,” Ms Goward said.

“The Common Ground model goes beyond offering a roof over people's heads by providing the support necessary to break the cycle of homelessness.

“Tenants will have access to a range of support services including health, counselling, living skills and financial management along with training to maximise opportunities for them to be reconnect with the mainstream community.”

104 self-contained one and two bedroom apartments are currently under construction.

Half of the units will be tenanted by former rough sleepers, while the remainder will be used for affordable rental housing. All apartments have their own kitchenette, bathroom and balcony and fully accessible for people with mobility impairments.

The Commonwealth and NSW Government are co-investing in the $33.8 million project contributing matched funding of just over $15.5 million each for development, construction and delivery of the project. The Commonwealth is also contributing $2.785 million under the National Partnership on Homelessness for the on-site support services.

MA Housing will manage the property and tenancies working closely with specialist homelessness services in the inner city to ensure a smooth transition into accommodation.
The Camperdown Project is expected to be completed in October 2011.