STAFF WRITERS
MEMBER for Eastern Victoria Region and Minister for Housing, Harriet Shing will speak at a housing forum in Churchill.
The Regional Australia Institute (RAI) is heading to Federation University, Churchill, hosting ‘Regions Rising’, an event bringing together thought leaders, policymakers, and community voices to explore bold reforms and place-based strategies surrounding secure housing.
The RAI says housing in regional Australia is at a tipping point. With the federal government’s ambitious target of 1.2 million new homes by 2030, the pressure is on to deliver solutions that work, and this forum will spotlight the urgent need for regional housing reform and showcase innovative approaches to ensure every Australian has access to safe, secure and appropriate housing.
“We’re thrilled to welcome The Hon. Harriet Shing, Victoria’s Minister for Housing, to share insights on the Big Housing Build and how the state is responding to the unique challenges of regional housing,” RAI said.
Ms Shing was hopeful the forum would help generated some robust discussions, leading to positive outcomes.
“Events like Regions Rising are about more than just ideas – they’re about putting regional leadership and collaboration at the centre of Victoria’s future, prosperity and opportunity,” she said.
“All over Australia we know that regional communities are facing a range of challenges in the supply and affordability of housing, which is why we’re delivering $2.25 billion in dedicated funding for rural and regional social and affordable housing.” she said.
“Everyone should have a safe and secure home which is why we’ve introduced increased rental protections and support for homebuyers with stamp duty concessions, first homebuyers grants and government top-up for the deposits people need to buy their own home.
“We’re working to deliver the homes and services regional communities need to grow and thrive.”
The Morwell MP will be joined by former Latrobe City Mayor, Kellie O’Callaghan as a guest speaker.
The forum will be held Friday, August 22 from 9.30am to 3.50pm.
Tickets are $150, and can be purchased via: www.regionalaustralia.org.au, and clicking the ‘events and impact’ tab.
