AnglicareSA Housing announces $100M investment in social and affordable housing and a new name
Today, AnglicareSA is announcing it will invest more than $100M in social and affordable housing over the next 10 years under its new housing brand – Believe Housing Australia.
AnglicareSA CEO Grant Reubenicht said Believe Housing Australia’s 10-year strategic investment and asset management plan would focus on increasing housing stock in South Australia and maintaining and upgrading existing homes.
“We currently have more than 2,100 social and affordable homes either under management or ownership,” Mr Reubenicht said.
“Our proven expertise in developing and managing housing stock will help increase capacity to meet existing and future demand.
“We have significant demonstrable success in creating communities – not just housing – across South Australia. We stand ready to continue to partner with all levels of government and other providers to drive up the number of affordable homes available to those in need.”
Believe Housing Australia Executive General Manager Michelle Gegenhuber said a dire shortage of social and affordable housing meant that only a fraction of those who needed a place to call home could achieve it.
“Across the country, skyrocketing market prices put home ownership out of reach for an increasing number of people,” she said. “The escalating cost of private rentals leaves low-income earners without enough money for basic needs like food, heating and clothing.
“More than ever, people are turning to the government and providers, like Believe Housing Australia, for support.
“We know that housing is fundamental to people moving out of crisis, building independence and wellbeing, and leading a full life.
“A new name, paired with our national accreditation as a tier 1 Community Housing Provider, will create opportunities for us to partner with other members of the Anglicare network on affordable housing projects over the state border.”
Ms Gegenhuber said that although Believe Housing Australia was working under a new name, it was business as usual for its employees and 4000-plus tenants.
“Through specialist wrap-around services, our on-the-ground team supports tenants to understand and achieve their needs and aspirations,” she said.
“This helps them to move along the housing continuum and where possible, build the independence to achieve permanent private rental or home ownership.
“Our proven capability in developing and managing properties, in addition to the upgrade and rebuild of homes, is in supporting individuals and families to connect with community, contribute to the economy, and build their independence.”
Believe Housing Australia’s launch event today kicks off construction of an $11M development at Panorama, which will deliver 23 new social and affordable rental apartments, including eight fully accessible apartments.
The accessible apartments will help create an inclusive environment for NDIS participants, particularly those who require specialist housing solutions, offering them independence and community connection.
Ms Gegenhuber said the project was due for completion in 2023, and would include the sale of 10 new townhouses, offering South Australians more housing options in an increasingly tight market.
Believe Housing Australia backgrounder:
Believe Housing Australia is a leading social and affordable housing provider, delivering safe and secure housing, and tenancy services.
Formerly known as AnglicareSA Housing, Believe Housing Australia continues to be part of the AnglicareSA family and remains a subsidiary company of AnglicareSA. The organisations share core values and a strong belief in the vision of justice, respect and fullness of life for all.
Believe Housing Australia is a nationally accredited tier 1 Community Housing Provider with a strong track record in the provision of social and affordable housing throughout South Australia. The new Believe Housing Australia brand is being launched today, however the business has been operating for more than 20 years.
