Homelessness, high rents, mortgages unavailable, government housing estates too few and poorly managed. There are so many issues making life difficult for people trying to find a home they can afford!
A group of concerned citizens of Mount Alexander Shire, on the land of the Djaara, are planning a rally and concert to address this issue.
The day will include information stalls, speakers and live music on Saturday May 23 at the St Mary’s Hall Castlemaine.
One of the organisers of the event, Peter James Wreford Dawson says in what he considers the richest country on Earth there should be no homelessness, families should be able to obtain a mortgage at a reasonable interest rate or affordable rental.
“Why are governments wasting money on beautification of streetscapes rather than building houses? How is it that $quillions are earmarked for useless
submarines and jet planes while housing, health and education are always at the bottom of the list?
“With our population aging, more and more people will need affordable accommodation especially in government estates. Apart from the financial
pressures, the stress of finding suitable accommodation is a serious factor in the detriment of mental health in our communities. Existing estates are too few and appallingly managed. Maintenance is haphazard and issues are ignored by Housing Officers,” Pete says.
Determined to make a difference Pete and friends have organised the rally and concert.
“The rally, supported by St Mary’s Catholic Church, Castlemaine is designed for those with a need for information about help that is available and
also an attempt to get government to listen!” he says.
Speakers have been invited from the Department of Families, Fairness & Housing, DJAARA Corporation, Housing groups, etc.
Speakers confirmed to appear will include Mayor Toby Heydon – Mount Alexander Shire Council; Tom Danby – Tiny Homes program; Malcolm Robins – Environmentally friendly community housing; and Dr Jamel Kaur Singh – Financial Literacy & Using Government Incentives towards Home Ownership.
Musicians to perform on the day will include Andy Dunne, Ange Lawson, Georgia Darcy, Les Thomas, Loz Lawrey, Peter Bodin, Trudy Fatnowna Edgeley, Silverfish and Scott Sanders.
The Homes For All rally will begin at 12 noon in St Mary’s Hall cnr Hargraves and Lyttleton Streets, Castlemaine with the concert following the speakers at approximately 3pm.
For more information email mujik@y7mail.com or check out the Housing In The ‘Maine Facebook page.