New social housing for vulnerable seniors
A new social housing development for vulnerable seniors in Western Australia has officially opened its doors.
Bethanie, a not-for-profit aged care and retirement living provider, unveiled Stage II of its Bethanie Peel Community Housing development on Friday May 5, offering a further 98 apartments to the 96 apartments built in the first stage in 2015.
Partly funded by WA's social housing investment program, the apartments are for seniors who cannot afford private housing and qualify for the aged pension. The rental contribution is 25 per cent of the pension.
The provision of affordable housing options for seniors is increasingly important with Australia’s ageing population.
In a report, Anglicare Australia's 2015 Rental Affordability Snapshot found that the aged care and pension systems have been designed for home owners. The poverty rate after housing costs had been deducted was significantly higher for seniors who did not own their own home.
Opening the new apartments, Bethanie Chief of Business Development, Rohan Taylor said, “Many of the residents who will soon move in have never lived in a brand new home or owned their own home.
“Ultimately, the reason why they are relying on the Department of Housing for their accommodation isn’t important. To be able to altruistically provide this level of accommodation to Western Australians in need of some support is a wonderful outcome and Bethanie is very proud of that.”
The social housing apartments are located next to Bethanie Peel Aged Care Facility and just minutes from the Mandurah Town Centre in Coodanup.
Each apartment includes wheelchair access, secure undercover parking, six star energy ratings and high quality fixtures. Facilities within the complex include libraries, cafes, craft room, gyms, mini golf and lawn bowls and a BBQ area.
The communal facilities are intended to promote social interaction and encourage a sense of community and belonging.