Govt boosts housing affordability

LISMORE and Ballina will receive $9.5 million in funding from the Building Better Regional Cities program it was announced last

Lismore City Council will receive a $5 million grant and Ballina Shire Council a grant of $4.5 million for local infrastructure projects to support new housing developments.

According to Housing Minister Brendan O'Connor, the funding will help reduce the cost of local infrastructure needed for new housing developments, such as roads, bridges, water and sewerage works, parks and community centres, so that those savings are passed on to home buyers.

"We know that housing shortages are creating challenges in growing regional communities, now and into the future," Mr O'Connor said. "The infrastructure costs for housing developments borne by developers and local councils can push up the price of new homes."

Member for Page Janelle Saffin said the Government wants to see communities grow and is working with local councils and developers to deliver more affordable homes for low and middle income families and help alleviate housing supply pressures in Page.

"The funding will help Lismore City Council with the construction of the Invercauld/Ballina Road intersection roundabout and the Oliver Avenue bridge and link road connection," Ms Saffin said.

Ballina will use its $4.5 million BBRC grant towards the construction of the Wollongbar Sports fields which will incorporate AFL, rugby, cricket, tennis and netball facilities and will service the Wollongbar Urban Expansion Area which will provide housing for approximately 2500 people.