The Andrews Labor Government is continuing to advance self-determination for Aboriginal people through the ownership of housing by transferring another 470 properties to Aboriginal Housing Victoria.

The properties were transferred to the organisation this month, giving it ownership and management responsibilities that will benefit its Aboriginal tenants.

The gradual transfer of 1448 properties from the Director of Housing to Aboriginal Housing Victoria, together with a further 76 properties it already owns, provide secure and affordable housing for approximately 4000 Aboriginal Victorians.

It will mean the homes are owned and managed by an Aboriginal organisation for the benefit of Aboriginal people. Ownership will be transferred in stages ensuring a smooth transition to the organisation as it expands.

All existing tenancies are secure and will not change as a result of title transfer. Rental agreements and the way rent is calculated will stay the same.

On a practical level, tenants will see improved service delivery, as they will only have to deal with one organisation for all issues relating to their housing.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Housing, Disability and Ageing Martin Foley

“We know that when Aboriginal housing is owned by Aboriginal people – we achieve better outcomes.”

“We are helping provide more affordable homes to Aboriginal Victorians by increasing the social housing stock of Aboriginal Housing Victoria.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Aboriginal Affairs Natalie Hutchins

“This transfer will provide secure housing for Aboriginal Victorians and continue to strengthen cultural and community ties.

“By allowing Aboriginal Victorians to manage their own affairs, such as housing, we are another step closer to achieving self-determination.”

Quotes attributable to Aboriginal Housing Victoria CEO Darren Smith

“Aboriginal Housing Victoria is not just a housing provider, we are the custodian of housing assets for the Aboriginal community.”

“This transfer of title ensures that Aboriginal Housing Victoria is in the best place to align our housing assets to the needs of the Victorian Aboriginal community in the long-term.”