The Regional Key Worker Housing Scheme is forging ahead, with a Limestone Coast builder sought to construct the second lot of homes in Mount Gambier/ Berrin.
A tender for the work has opened to build two, four-bedroom homes north-east of Mount Gambier/ Berrin’s city centre.
It is hoped a builder would be appointed so construction could begin mid-year, to enable the first tenants to move in by the end of 2025.
This latest development follows the appointment of Empak Homes to construct four, single-storey homes in the city.
Construction of those four homes by Empak was set start by the end of February after planning approval was secured earlier this year.
Once complete, the six new homes in Mount Gambier/ Berrin would house essential workers like teachers, police officers, and healthcare workers to help ease pressure on the local housing market.
The Regional Key Worker Housing Scheme would deliver 35 new regional homes across the state including six in Mount Gambier/ Berrin and five in Bordertown to address the critical need for purpose-built government worker housing.
Minister for Housing and Urban Development Nick Champion said Mount Gambier/ Berrin was identified as a priority region in need of purpose-built housing for essential workers.
“The Office for Regional housing has been working tirelessly to identify and secure land appropriate for that purpose,” he said.
“We are looking for a local builder who can help us fast track this latest opportunity, that will help support quality government services in Mount Gambier and also help reduce pressure on the private rental market.
“The Regional Key Worker Housing Scheme is designed to tackle the chronic housing shortage in country areas and we hope to have the first homes ready for essential workers to move in next year.”
Member for Mount Gambier Troy Bell said the lack of available housing was one of two major challenges facing the region, with the other being attracting and retaining skilled workers.
“The Regional Key Worker Scheme is a crucial initiative that addresses both issues by providing quality, affordable homes for our essential workers,” he said.
“Through the involvement of local builders, the scheme generates a ripple effect, promoting job creation and ongoing skills development within our regions, further benefitting the community.”
