The state budget was a "real surprise and terribly disappointing" that had little, if any new investments in social and affordable housing.
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So said Housing Trust CEO Michele Adair, who added the NSW government failed to deliver the stimulus that was expected.
"There appears to be little if any new money in the Treasurer's $812 million announcement," Ms Adair said.
"This is a lost opportunity to deliver real jobs growth, economic stimulus and social outcomes for our community."
She said an investment in affordable rental housing would have delivered a windfall of jobs and long term community benefits.
"Some 10,000 households across the Illawarra are already in housing stress and over 3000 on the social housing wait list. With unemployment expected to grow to 10 per cent even more people will be forced to forgo food, school supplies and health care to keep a roof over their head."
We cannot, and will not, give up on the thousands of women, men, young people and children who need safe, affordable housing.
Ms Adair said while it appeared that the government was aware of the rental crisis and economic value of investing in residential construction, the budget response on Tuesday missed the mark "big time".
"Even the expansion of the Together Home program which specifically supports people who have been rough sleeping or who are in temporary accommodation falls tragically short of the investment required. There may be around 30 packages available in the Illawarra for a homeless population in excess of 1300," she said.
"We cannot, and will not, give up on the thousands of women, men, young people and children who need safe, affordable housing.
"The sector has a proven track record of delivering quality housing and great community benefits."
Ms Adair added the Housing Trust and the community housing sector would continue to work with the government to find solutions to the housing crisis.
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