Construction of supported accommodation units for people with a severe mental illness is well underway in Traralgon’s Hyde Park Road after years of lobbying and planning.
The six units will provide a permanent home for people with a severe and chronic mental illness, with support from recovery organisation Mind Australia and Latrobe Regional Hospital’s community mental health service.
The project was jointly funded by Eastcoast Housing, the State Government and community donations.
“It’s a real thrill to see this happening, knowing it’s going to meet this demand,” mental health advocacy group Barrier Breakers chair Derek Amos said.
Mr Amos said he anticipated the first tenants would move in during June.
He said the group would this year focus on lobbying government to roll out the Traralgon model across every major Gippsland town.
The year-and-a-half-long campaign for $10 million has so far been unsuccessful, but the group plans to submit a community petition supporting the rollout to State Parliament in its next session.
To sign the petition, visit the Barrier Breakers office at the Kath Teychenne Centre, 11-13 Breed Street, Traralgon, or phone
5174 4588.
