A new build-to-rent housing development in the Canberra suburb of Curtin is set to be completed in the first half of 2028, offering relief to individuals and families struggling with rental affordability. Source: Catholic Voice.
The 54-unit complex – a mix of one, two, and three-bedroom homes – will be built on church land on Strangways Street, adjacent to the Curtin shops.
Led by Marymead CatholicCare in collaboration with the ACT Government, the Canberra-Goulburn Archdiocese’s North Woden parish, the project aims to provide affordable housing for those priced out of the local rental market.
“Affordable housing is for those earning between $50,000 and low $100,000s,” Marymead CatholicCare director of strategic and financial projects Graeme Shearman said.
“Many people are being forced out of the suburbs due to rent costs – they are priced out and are not able to live close to where they work. Market rents would be unaffordable for them, and for some, severely unaffordable.”
Mr Shearman said rental stress was defined as spending more than 30 per cent of household income on rent.
“We’re targeting essential workers – teachers, childcare workers, even baristas in local cafés – who often have to travel long distances to work,” he said.
“We have found a lot of people travelling up to an hour to get to where they work. This is trying to bring them in closer, which benefits everyone in the community because it is an influx of people in the working-age demographic, which will add to the local economy. It means Curtin will continue to thrive.”
A 55th unit in the complex will be dedicated to Marymead’s CatholicCare Social Impact Program, which Mr Shearman noted has already seen success at the Toolangi complex in Kaleen.
The program offers a holistic wellbeing approach that aims to build inclusive communities and enable social change through community engagement, connection, and tenancy support for all residents.
“Through our Social Impact Program, tenants will receive ongoing support, ensuring this is more than just housing – it’s a community.”
FULL STORY
Curtin’s affordable housing project set for 2028 (By Veronika Cox, Catholic Voice)
