Victoria’s opposition says it would suspend the demolition program for 44 public housing towers in Melbourne if it wins the state election. The pledge comes as the High Court hears residents’ challenge to the government’s decision.
Opposition housing spokesman David Southwick said a Coalition government would halt further demolitions and review which buildings could be repaired. He also pointed to vacant apartments in some of the remaining towers amid a housing shortage. The pledge is an election promise, not a decision by the current state government.
The High Court of Australia is hearing a case brought by residents of three towers in Flemington and North Melbourne. They are challenging the process behind the government’s plan to demolish and redevelop 44 buildings. Court documents say the dispute concerns procedural fairness and whether residents’ interest in maintaining their community is legally recognised.
Inner Melbourne Community Legal, which represents residents, said the case could set an important precedent for public housing tenants. Homes Victoria argues that the redevelopment is intended to bring housing estates up to modern building standards and improve living conditions. The court has not yet decided the case.
Two towers have already been demolished, and seven more were identified for the next phase, according to the report. The program could affect about 10,000 residents. The government has offered alternative community housing and says relocated tenants may be able to return to social housing in their neighbourhood after redevelopment, depending on eligibility and need.