SGCH unveils 51 new homes in Riverwood expanding housing options for vulnerable groups

14 October 2024

SGCH is proudly opening the doors of its latest social and affordable housing development in Riverwood, offering well-located energy-efficient, sustainable and secure housing options for a range of community members, including women aged 55 and over and individuals at risk of homelessness.

SGCH Customer, SGCH Board Chair, Karen Orvad, SGCH Customer, Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Hon. Josh Wilson, NSW Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Hon. Rose Jackson, SGCH Acting Group CEO, Joe Achmar.

The 51-apartment complex features 50 social housing units and one affordable housing unit (a mix of one- and two-bedroom), 24 basement car parking spaces, a bike storage room, and an expansive landscaped communal area with barbeques that encourages community building.

Supported by the NSW Government’s Social and Affordable Housing Fund (SAHF) Phase 2 and Affordable Housing Bond Aggregator (AHBA) loan from Housing Australia, this project highlights successful collaboration between multiple levels of government to address housing challenges.

“By working closely with different tiers of government, we’ve been able to create sustainable, high-quality housing that will make a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” said Joe Achmar, Acting Group CEO of SGCH.

“As more people struggle to find suitable affordable housing in a difficult economic climate, partnerships such as ours with Housing Australia and the NSW Government, have become even more urgent,” said Mr Achmar. 

Assistant Minister for Climate Change and Energy, Hon. Josh Wilson, NSW Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Hon. Rose Jackson, two SGCH Customers.

With more than 57,000 families and individuals currently on the social housing waiting list in NSW, this project is an important step in addressing housing needs in Riverwood, a priority growth area.

“The NSW Government is committed to increasing the supply of social and affordable homes, and the Social and Affordable Housing Fund is a key part of that strategy,” Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said.

“We are proud to be part of this Riverwood project which will provide critical housing for some of our most vulnerable community members.”

The development, constructed by Tricon Builders Group and designed by DKO Architecture, emphasises sustainability and accessibility, featuring a minimum 7-star NatHERS rating, ensuring energy efficiency and helping to keep tenants’ electricity bills as low as possible. Additionally, 33 of the apartments funded through the SAHF program meet Silver Level Liveable Housing Design Standards, with wide doorways, accessible bathrooms, and level entry points that cater to the diverse needs of future residents.

The development will offer homes to at least 120 new SGCH customers. Its prime location, just 800 meters from Riverwood Train Station and across from Riverwood Primary School, ensures easy access to key services, education, retail, and public transportation.