Victorian Government Targets Elder Housing for Demolition, Faces Legal Challenge
The Victorian state government has identified seven additional public housing towers for demolition, a decision poised to affect over 600 vulnerable older residents. These towers, designated as communities for older persons, will see residents scheduled for relocation starting in July, prompting lawyers to pursue legal action in the High Court to challenge the 30-year redevelopment initiative.
Simultaneously, research from RMIT University suggests that alternative approaches, such as infill housing and tower refurbishment, could be more cost-effective, less disruptive, and offer significant environmental benefits.
New Demolitions Target Older Residents
Harriet Shing, the Housing Minister, announced the next stage of the redevelopment program, which includes towers located in Albert Park, Flemington, Kensington, North Melbourne, St Kilda, and Prahran. These seven facilities are part of the state's 13 specifically designed for older persons, providing specialized support for elderly residents.
Approximately 70 percent of the residents in these affected towers are aged 65 or older, underscoring the significant impact on an elderly demographic.
"These seven towers are part of the state's 13 facilities specifically designed for older persons, providing specialized support for elderly residents."
Residents Voice Apprehension
Residents have expressed deep concern regarding the expedited timeline for the demolitions. Bill McKenzie, a 73-year-old resident from Albert Park, noted that they were initially informed that older persons' high-rises would be impacted later in the process. Residents have also sought resolution for issues such as broken security cameras and reduced security patrols.
McKenzie emphasized the importance of offering nearby relocation options to maintain residents' access to medical support and family networks.
"McKenzie emphasized the importance of offering nearby relocation options to maintain residents' access to medical support and family networks."
Fiona York, CEO of the Housing For the Aged Action Group, voiced apprehension about the potential impact of relocations on frail residents. She also expressed concern that this action could signify the end of dedicated programs for older residents.
The Broader Redevelopment Plan
The broader redevelopment plan involves rebuilding more than 40 towers across Melbourne, initially constructed between the 1950s and 1970s. While the new developments will increase the total number of units, most will not be traditional public housing.
Instead, the sites will feature a 10 percent increase in community housing, managed by not-for-profit organizations, with two-thirds of units designated as private rentals. The new housing will be developed by consortiums that lease the land from the state for 40 years.
The Minister also introduced the Hand in Hand Community Support Program, designed to connect relocated residents with those currently residing in the towers to provide assistance and reassurance during the transition.
Alternative Approaches and Government Rejection
An RMIT study proposed a "single-move" model, where new accommodation is built on-site before existing towers are upgraded, allowing residents to remain in their community. Professor Karien Dekker of RMIT stated that this approach could be more beneficial for residents, reduce CO2 emissions, and be less costly for taxpayers.
"Professor Karien Dekker of RMIT stated that this approach could be more beneficial for residents, reduce CO2 emissions, and be less costly for taxpayers."
However, Minister Shing dismissed this suggestion, citing potential "billions of dollars" in costs and the prospect of residents living on a construction site for years.
Ongoing Legal Battles
The decision to proceed with the demolition of seven additional towers follows the Court of Appeal's dismissal of an appeal by residents of three towers in North Melbourne and Flemington. While most residents from these initial towers have been relocated, approximately 30 households have declined offers to move.
Inner Melbourne Community Legal plans to seek an injunction to prevent the eviction of these remaining households until the High Court reviews the matter. A recent parliamentary inquiry also recommended halting the project, criticizing the government for not releasing relevant documents.
Minister Shing maintained that the matter was found "reasonable and proportionate" by courts.