Cumulus $49m social housing project in Dandenong, Victoria

Construction has officially started on a new $49 million social housing development in Dandenong, delivering 89 new homes. Built in partnership between the Labor Government and Launch Housing, the Cumulus housing project will deliver a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments which are modern, energy-efficient and secure for families on the Victorian Housing Register. Dandenong MP Gabrielle Williams made the announcement on the construction site on 12 November. Greater Dandenong councillor Jim Memeti said such projects provide "dignity, stability and opportunity", with about 2500 people in Greater Dandenong at risk of homelessness. "Social housing is about more than bricks and mortar. "(It ensures that every person - regardless of their circumstance - has access to safe, secure and affordable housing. "Having a home is essential to a person's health and wellbeing and is a human right that we all deserve. "Launch Housing are committed to ending homelessness - and their work has already transformed lives across Melbourne. Greater Dandenong City Council is proud to work alongside them to bring that impact to Dandenong." Designed to support ageing in place, the project includes a ground floor space for a social enterprise, energy-saving features to reduce bills, and is within walking distance of Dandenong Railway Station, bus stops, shops, schools and services. The Labor Government's $6.3 billion housing investment is delivering more than 13,300 homes across Victoria, with more than 11,100 underway or complete. In the City of Greater Dandenong more than $170 million has been invested in 357 new social and affordable homes, with 92 already complete.