New social homes take shape in Melbourne’s west

Forty-seven new social homes will soon welcome residents in Melbourne’s west, providing safe, stable and affordable housing for people in need.

Delivered through a partnership between Baptcare Affordable Housing and Homes Victoria, the Keilor Downs development is nearing completion, with future residents expected to begin moving in by the end of 2026.

A site walk-through provided Baptcare Affordable Housing board members and key stakeholders an opportunity to see the development taking shape and get a sense of what the finished homes will offer residents.

The development includes 47 homes, comprising 37 one-bedroom, six two-bedroom and four three-bedroom homes, providing a mix of housing to meet different needs within the community.

Baptcare Affordable Housing and Homes Victoria also have a social housing development underway in Lalor, which is expected to be completed around the same time. Located next to BaptistCare Wattle Grove residential aged care home, the development will deliver 45 new homes, comprising 38 one-bedroom units, five two-bedroom houses and two three-bedroom houses.

BaptistCare General Manager of Property Development Trent Wiggins said the progress at Keilor Downs shows what can be achieved when organisations work together to respond to housing need across Victoria.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to see this project reach this stage. What began as a vision is now almost ready to welcome the people who will call it home,” Trent said.

“This development reflects the strength of the partnership between Homes Victoria, Baptcare Affordable Housing and the many people who have worked together to bring it to life.

“We’re proud to be contributing our property expertise to a project that will make a lasting difference for future residents while helping increase the supply of social housing in Melbourne’s west.”

Better Living Group General Manager of Construction Sebastian Giacchi said strong collaboration had helped the project overcome unexpected challenges and maintain momentum.

“When initially engaged to construct the homes and apartments, Better Living Group faced an unexpected challenge when the appointed subdivision contractor went into liquidation just prior to commencing works. Rather than allowing this to delay the projects, Baptcare Affordable Housing and Better Living Group worked closely to develop a solution that would keep the developments moving forward,” he said.

“The successful delivery of the Keilor Downs and Lalor developments is a testament to the value of genuine collaboration, open communication and a shared commitment to achieving an outcome,” Sebastian said.

At the heart of the development are the people who will call it home. Baptcare Affordable Housing CEO Robyn Evans said secure housing can provide the foundation people need to build greater stability in their lives.

“A home provides so much more than a roof over your head. It provides stability, security and a place to belong.

“Behind each of these homes is a person or family who will have the opportunity to build their future with greater certainty, connection and support,” Robyn said.

“While we’re pleased to celebrate the progress of this development today, the real milestone will come when residents walk through the door and begin the next chapter of their lives.”

The Keilor Downs development is progressing at a time when demand for social housing continues to grow across Victoria, increasing the need for secure, appropriate homes for individuals and families.

Once the development is complete, Baptcare Affordable Housing will continue its involvement through property and tenancy management services, supporting the new community as residents settle into their homes.

For more information about Baptcare Affordable Housing, click the link below.

Link: https://housing.baptcare.org.au/