Construction has officially begun on a $7.9 million Granville development that will look to address the “huge need” for affordable housing in western Sydney.
216 William Street in Granville is set to be transformed into new housing as part of a plan to deliver more social and affordable homes across western Sydney.
Minister for Families and Communities Natasha Maclaren-Jones said the multi-million dollar development in Granville will deliver 35 self-contained studio apartments including 18 social housing dwellings and 17 affordable homes.
“It’s vitally important that we ensure everyone has a safe place to call home,” she said.
“[The development] will support those who currently might need accommodation, we’re seeing people moving all over the state to the regions, but the great thing about this one is that it will help address some of the challenges and waiting lists we have in social housing.”
The 35 apartments will also feature spacious living space with a kitchenette and modern bathroom. The NSW Government is delivering the project with community housing partner Better Housing Australia.
Ms Maclaren-Jones said it is “wonderful” to be partnering with a new community housing provider.
“The NSW Government is always looking for ways to increase housing supply across the state,” she said.
“We welcome future opportunities to collaborate with all organisations who have a commitment to deliver life changing projects such as this.”
Better Housing Australia’s Managing Director Leslie Ochwada said there is a “huge need” for more affordable housing in western Sydney.
“One of the things I think is important to acknowledge is that western Sydney does have a challenge in providing affordable housing, I think we see it as doing our bit by partnering up with the Department of Communities and Justice,” he said.
“We’re committed to providing better social and affordable housing across NSW and this project is the first of many we hope to be delivering in partnership with the Government.”
Minister for Transport, Veterans and western Sydney David Elliott believes the development will make a significant difference.
“This complex will provide safe and stable accommodation in a great location. It is close to transport, services, education and recreation facilities, including TAFE, Granville Park and Holroyd Gardens, Merrylands train station and Merrylands Shopping Precinct,” he said.
“The NSW Government’s $4 million investment through the Community Housing Innovation Fund (CHIF) will change the lives of so many looking to live in the growing western Sydney community.”
The CHIF is a $152.5 million program delivering more social and affordable housing in partnership with community housing providers across NSW.
Ellie Busby is a news reporter for Western Sydney Publishing Group. A graduate of the University of Hertfordshire and Western Sydney University, she is a journalism Major. Ellie has worked with Universal Media, The Cova Project and for a range of other organisations. In 2024, Ellie was named Young Writer of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.