Released 17/01/2020
The ACT Government has today released a Market Sounding Paper to identify and explore early philanthropic opportunities to deliver Common Ground Dickson./strong>
The Common Ground housing model transition people experiencing chronic homelessness into permanent housing with the ongoing support the need to stay housed.
Common Ground Dickson will provide 40 social and affordable homes with a mix of one, two and three bedroom units to support the needs of a mix of tenants.
The Market Sounding Paper looks to explore early construction market capacity and interest in providing innovative social and community outcomes.
The ACT Government wants to hear from interested builders on what further information would be required to tender and the types of innovative philanthropic support should be considered with the upcoming procurement.
Minister for Housing and Suburban Development, Yvette Berry, said “The Canberra community has always shown its willingness to give to the greater good and a key to the success of Common Ground Gungahlin was the positive community response and I hope that will be repeated in Dickson,” said Minister Berry.
“This could involve partnering with commercial tradespeople or suppliers, groups or individuals to contribute anything from construction resources and materials to essential household goods and services,” Ms Berry said.
Common Ground Board member, Di Kargas Bray AM, has welcomed the opportunity for industry to get on board early, “Experience shows the Common Ground approach works by helping previously homeless people not only with housing but also connections with the community.
“The Common Ground model—based on partnership between the government, community and private sectors—makes it particularly suitable for philanthropy,” Ms Bray said.
While the construction will be tendered both locally and nationally, the ACT Government is committed to supporting businesses that meet the highest ethical and labour standards and the successful tenderer will be required to have Secure Local Jobs code certification.
The Market Sounding Paper will be available on the Tenders ACT website along with the draft design lodged with the Development Application (DA) to the ACT Land and Planning Authority. Subject to DA approval, construction is anticipated to be completed by the end of 2021.
- Statement ends -
Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases