Join the affordable housing trust advisory committee
Published on 15 July 2024
Mount Alexander Shire Council is inviting community members to express their interest in joining the Advisory Committee to the Mount Alexander Affordable Housing Trust.
Council established the trust in June, and allocated $500K from its 2024-2025 Budget to it.
The trust is an independent charitable organisation that will hold land and funds for the development of affordable housing locally.
Council is looking for six representatives to advise the trust on housing needs in the shire, bring a range of professional expertise, and represent the community.
Mount Alexander Shire Council’s Mayor, Cr Matthew Driscoll, said that an advisory committee is the essential next step in setting up the trust.
“Council’s kicked the trust off through adopting the trust deed – which is the founding document for the trust, and sets out the purpose and scope of the trust.
“Now it’s time to appoint trust advisory committee members, who will each have an important role to play in supporting the trustee, and representing the community.”
Members of the advisory committee will:
- Advise on affordable housing needs and opportunities in the shire.
- Represent the community in an inclusive way that accounts for all affordable housing needs.
- Present informed, balanced and fair advice based on objective evidence and broad engagement with the community.
- Provide advice free from personal or representational bias.
- Provide advice on potential projects, donation and funding opportunities in and for the community.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for anyone wanting to make practical and sustainable change in our community,” said Mayor Driscoll.
“We’re looking for people with strong skills, knowledge, experience and interest in the sustainable growth of permanent affordable housing.
“If you feel you have the relevant skills and experience, I encourage you to express your interest in joining the advisory committee and get on board with this incredible initiative.”
Get involved
Expressions of interest close on Sunday 4 August, 11.59pm.
Council is hosting a number of information sessions to enable residents to find out more about the trust, and the advisory committee.
Council’s Housing Solutions Broker, Clare Richards will be available to answer questions face-to-face about the trust on:
When: Thursday 1 August, 9.00am to 11.00am (with Councillor Christine Henderson)
Where: Elphinstone Post Office and General Store, Bateman Street, Elphinstone
When: Saturday 3 August, 10.00am to 12.00pm (with Deputy Mayor Rosie Annear)
Where: Wesley Hill Community Market, 149 Pyrenees Highway, Castlemaine
For more information, visit www.shape.mountalexander.vic.gov.au/mount-alexander-affordable-housing-trust.
After reading background material, applicants are welcome to discuss the role of the committee with Clare Richards by emailing affordablehousing@mountalexander.vic.gov.au or calling 5471 1700.