Researchers at Deakin University are working on the new ‘HOME’ project, which would create clusters of small, low-cost homes around Geelong (pictured) as affordable housing options for older residents with lower incomes.
Funded by the Geelong Community Foundation (GCF) and the Lord Mayor’s Charitable Fund, HOME has been particularly designed for retirees living on pensions – with the first stage planned to target those already living in the Geelong community.
Geelong’s demographic makes it the ideal location for HOME, given that its over-65 population is considerably larger than the nearby capital of Melbourne, and many older people in the community are currently receiving fixed low incomes (making home ownership difficult).
Researchers say the ‘micro village’ concept will place a big focus on creating ‘social connectedness’ and increasing residents’ emotional, psychological and physical wellbeing – and, if successful, could be rolled out to other locations around VIC and the country.
We think it’s a fantastic project. Our older mums and dads shouldn’t have to worry about finding options for affordable and secure housing.
