Nola's Journey to a new home: Affordable housing in Melbourne

Nola recently returned to Melbourne to be closer to her family.

The dedicated disability support worker was seeking affordable and secure housing and was delighted to secure a 3-year lease in brand new energy efficient housing as part of Homes Victoria’s Affordable housing program.

I found the inspection date online and talking to the staff, there they were explaining how the ballot process worked and that you had to go online and apply,” she said.

“It was quite easy, there was nothing difficult with it and I'm no tech whiz. You just answer the questions give the information required.” 

Nola is now a very happy resident at Tarakan Street, Heidelberg project - a site which was transformed by replacing 60 outdated homes with 130 new residences. This included 67 social homes and 63 affordable homes. 

"It’s awesome,” Nola said.

“This is the first time I’ve ever lived on my own. It’s mine. It's brand new. I just love everything about it.”

The Tarakan Street, Heidelberg project incorporates new open green spaces, a terrace garden, barbeque facilities, and a children’s play area, enhancing the living experience for both residents and the wider community.

Located just 10 kilometres north-east of Melbourne's city center, the Tarakan Street site offers convenient access to community services, local schools, educational institutions, and shopping precincts, making it an ideal location for families and individuals alike.

Homes Victoria affordable is creating a unique alternative to the private rental market to help eligible Victorian renters access high quality and secure housing at an affordable rent.

Under the program, rents in metropolitan Melbourne are set at least 10% below the area’s median market rent, with the added protection of a cap set at 30% of the median of the moderate income. 

Fixed-term rental agreements of 3 years ensure that all homes start affordable and stay affordable. 

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