Getting Bushfire-Affected Victorians Back On Their Land

VIC Premier

Since launching in May 2020, the Andrews Labor Government’s Short-Term Modular Housing program has helped get more than 35 households back on their land and in their communities.

Short-Term Modular Housing is an option available for people who lost their principal place of residence in the 2019-20 Victorian bushfires. The affordable housing can be installed on a property for up to three years while residents progress their permanent rebuild.

The homes come in standard designs that accommodate most temporary accommodation needs and can be customised to meet specific needs, such as mobility access requirements.

The program has been designed to be affordable, with property owners paying only a small hiring fee benchmarked to public housing rates. Independent advice is available from financial counselling services to help applicants determine how much they can afford to pay.

The hire fee for Short-Term Modular Housing will never be more than 25 per cent of a family or individual’s income and in most cases, applicants have been approved for a lower hire fee.

Applications for Short-Term Modular Housing are still open and people are encouraged to apply. To be eligible, residents must be engaged in the Bushfire Recovery Support program and intend to rebuild their residence within three years.

The Short-Term Modular Housing program is open now. To get started call 1800 560 760 and speak with a local Bushfire Recovery Support Worker.

Quotes Attributable to Acting Minister for Police and Emergency Services Danny Pearson

“We’re proud to have supported more than thirty-five bushfire-affected families and individuals to return to their properties in Short-Term Modular Housing while they get on with their rebuild.”

“Short-Term Modular Housing gives people a safe and comfortable place to call home while they progress their permanent rebuild.”

/Public Release. View in full here.