This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
THE Victorian government is supporting the development of a culturally specific independent living village for Aboriginal Elders in the regional city of Ballarat.
A turn of the first sod ceremony for Elders’ Independent Living Community was attended by Harriet Shing, minister for regional development, and representatives of the Ballarat and District Aboriginal Cooperative (BADAC).
The village will enable Elders to live independently while receiving care, while also helping older Aboriginal people share their culture and lead their communities.
“We’re pleased that construction is underway on this important project, paving the way for Aboriginal Elders to continue to support and guide their local communities,” said Gabrielle Williams, minister for Treaty and First Peoples.
Located near Ballarat’s city centre, the village is supported by a $2.6 million investment from the state government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund, as part of the record of investment of over $36 billion across regional and rural Victoria since 2015.
“This infrastructure funding is a powerful symbol of this state government’s commitment to genuine Aboriginal self-determination and willingness to Close the Gap,” said Karen Heap, CEO at BADAC.
Across the five local government areas in western Victoria of including Ballarat, Moorabool, Hepburn, Golden Plains and Pyrenees, there are more than 700 Aboriginal people aged 45 and older.
The development will comprise eight self-contained units, a central hall for community meals, treatment rooms for medical personnel and a vegetable garden.
“Projects like the BADAC Elders’ Independent Living Community are so important in delivering facilities, inclusion and spaces to regional Victorian communities,” Harriet Shing, minister for regional development.
Ballarat-based D.R.A.R. Constructions will deliver the project, with the construction phase set to generate 160 jobs, with four ongoing roles created at BADAC upon completion.
“We’re investing in projects that matter across Ballarat and this investment will help local Elders get the care they deserve,” said Michaela Settle, member for Eureka.
