The Department secured $589 million from the Federal Government under the Nation Building Economic Stimulus Plan in early 2009 to increase the supply of social housing across WA through new construction and for the repair and maintenance of existing homes.
A further $146 million was awarded from the State Government for the same objective.
This is the largest building program that the Department has undertaken since the Second World War with 4191 new dwellings to be delivered across WA.
Some of the core objectives of the Stimulus programs include:
- Increasing social housing stock
- Housing the most vulnerable
- Providing opportunities for trainees and apprentices
- Developing the community housing sector
- Production of energy efficient housing
- Production of housing designed to universal and adaptable standards.
Under the Federal stimulus program, the repairs and maintenance program as well as Stage One of new construction were completed by 30 June 2010. Stage Two of new construction is on track to be completed by 30 June 2012.
The State stimulus program should be completed by 31 December 2011.
Governments provided the stimulus funding in response to the global economic downturn. It provided an immediate boost to the construction and property sector at a time when it was most vulnerable.