This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
MIRVAC, Synergy and the Western Australian government’s Keystar have launched an affordable housing experiment.
Mirvac will construct a $415,000 three-bedroom, two-bathroom net-zero energy terrace home at Iluma Private Estate in Bennett Springs, built to an 8.4-star energy rating with Synergy proving the solar panels and a battery.
A family will be invited to live in the home for 12-months, but they must be able to qualify for Keystart to apply and take part in the experiment.
The family’s energy, water use and lifestyle will be monitored over the 12-month period to better understand the cost savings that can be achieved by living in an energy-efficient home.
The family chosen to live in the home will have rental payments set aside and saved by Mirvac, which can then be used towards a deposit to purchase the home at the end of the experiment.
Housing Minister Peter Tinley said the government’s Affordable Housing Action Plan and recent changes to Keystart’s low deposit lending regime are all designed to help people achieve home ownership.
“The provision of more housing options, higher quality homes and dwellings that use environmentally sustainable, energy efficient and innovative design principles are all part of the mix of housing product that the State Government wants for Western Australia.
“Mirvac are to be congratulated for stepping up and taking on the challenge.” Tinley said.
Planning Minister Rita Saffioti said Bennett Springs is a growing community which is set to benefit from its proximity to the coming Morley-Ellenbrook Line – making it a great place for this innovative project.
“Affordable, innovative housing options such as this will complement this work and we commend Mirvac for their forward-thinking approach in this space.” Saffioti concluded.
