A NEW provider of affordable housing has chosen the Derwent Valley as the location of its first project. Nine units now under construction in Graham Court, New Norfolk, represent the maiden project of St Joseph Affordable Homes. Another 15 units are scheduled to be built in nearby McLeod St.
St Joseph Affordable Homes was launched last month by the Catholic Church as a building and construction social enterprise providing employment opportunities as well as support for young families. It will provide trade apprenticeships in a range of construction areas, gained through an in-house apprenticeship and life-coaching scheme.
The social and affordable home building programs of CatholicCare Tasmania and Centacare Evolve Housing will provide the building projects for St Joseph Affordable Homes, allowing regular intakes of apprentices annually to support the construction of more than 100 homes.
“CatholicCare Tasmania and Centacare Evolve Housing have led the way in the delivery of much needed new social and affordable housing in Tasmania,” St Joseph Affordable Homes chief executive Ben Wilson said. “St Joseph Affordable Homes will provide a further opportunity to enhance the outcomes achieved in this area whilst providing employment for a number of new apprentices looking to enter the residential construction sector,” Mr Wilson said.
Catholic Archbishop Julian Porteous said the development of affordable and social housing was one of the great contributions the social service agency CatholicCare had made to Tasmania. “Being able to provide for the needs of people who haven’t got homes or can’t afford to buy their own has been a true reflection of the mission of the Church,” he said.
