Melbourne Public Housing Residents Face Relocation as Tower Demolitions Loom
Melbourne, Australia – As demolition plans advance for three public housing towers in Melbourne, residents are navigating a complex relocation process, with some preparing to leave thier homes while others remain uncertain about their future. The towers – located in North Melbourne, Flemington, and Kensington – are slated for demolition as part of a broader urban renewal project, sparking concerns about housing affordability and the well-being of vulnerable residents.
the Victorian government aims to replace the existing social housing with a mix of properties, promising a 39% increase in social housing across the three sites. However, the relocation has been met with criticism from residents and advocacy groups who allege inadequate support and unsuitable housing options. The situation highlights the ongoing challenges of providing secure and affordable housing in a rapidly growing city.
According to Victorian Housing Minister Harriet Shing, relocation teams are actively working with each household to find homes that meet their needs and eligibility criteria. Each family has been assigned a dedicated relocation officer to assist with preferences regarding location, access to community networks, healthcare, and transport. A small number of households have been offered multiple properties to accommodate larger families or changing circumstances.
Though, Ellen Sandell, leader of the Victorian Greens, claims residents have been “pressured to leave with little or no support,” and moved into homes that are to small for basic necessities like a dining table or refrigerator. These claims were dismissed by Minister Shing, who stated, “Every Victorian deserves access to a safe and secure home… That’s why we’re improving social housing.”
Data reveals that 51% of relocated residents have been moved into public housing, while 49% have been placed in community housing. Notably, community housing providers can charge higher rent – up to 30% of income – compared to the 25% cap for public housing, as highlighted by former resident Bassini during an inquiry.
One resident, Alihash, is currently preparing to move as she awaits a new housing offer. The ongoing relocations are part of Homes Victoria’s wider plan to redevelop the sites, with the promise of modern, improved social housing in the future.
