One of the social houses in Shellharbour. Photo: Supplied.
Three new social housing homes have opened their doors in Shellharbour after being built in a matter of weeks, showcasing how modern, modular construction is accelerating housing delivery for people in need — with another home set to be completed by April.
Modern methods of construction (MMC) means each of the three homes took on average 14 to 16 weeks from development approval to completion.
They’re part of a statewide push by the NSW Government to fast-track construction of housing for those in need, demonstrating how modular construction can dramatically reduce delivery times.
Houses are built off-site while site works happen in parallel, reducing weather delays and onsite inefficiencies, delivering homes up to 20 per cent faster than traditional construction, without compromising on quality.
Backed by a $6.6 billion investment, eight modular social homes were completed last year, including three in Wollongong, and a total 90 homes will be delivered in NSW by the end of this year for up to 200 people.
NSW Housing Minister Rose Jackson said the Shellharbour homes showed what was possible for social housing.
“Using modular construction, we’re delivering high-quality social homes in a matter of weeks, not years, getting people into safe, secure housing sooner,” Ms Jackson said.
“Modern methods of construction doesn’t mean cutting corners; these homes are built to the same standards as traditional housing, with precision manufacturing, durability and comfort front of mind.
“These homes are part of a growing pipeline of modular housing across NSW, backed by record investment and a clear focus on delivery.”
Another view of the property using modular construction. Photo: Supplied.
Illawarra and South Coast Minister Ryan Park also welcomed the investment in the region.
“Modern methods of construction are allowing us to take housing delivery to the next level and I’m thrilled to see the results of that investment here in Shellharbour,” Mr Park said.
“By moving the building process into a controlled factory environment, we’re getting more families into homes sooner.
“That’s the kind of innovation we need to tackle the housing crisis in the Illawarra.”
Member for Shellharbour Anna Watson said she was proud to see Shellharbour at the forefront of the housing revolution.
“These are high-quality, modern houses that will fit seamlessly into our community,” Ms Watson said.
“For the residents moving in, it means a fresh start in a safe, secure home months earlier than traditional building methods would have allowed.”
Homes NSW worked with Australian manufacturer Moov Modular to deliver the safe, high-quality homes in Shellharbour.
