Aboriginal Rapid Housing Response Program
In 2020, AHV in partnership with other Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisations (ACCOs) secured $34 million of funding through the Victorian Government’s Building Works in Aboriginal Community-Controlled Housing, Aboriginal Rapid Housing Response Program (ARHRP). This funding was secured to improve housing conditions for approximately 2,000 Aboriginal households across Victoria.
The ARHRP is the most significant maintenance and upgrade project of its kind to be undertaken in Victoria. Completed in 2024, the project delivered 12 programmes of work that prioritised property condition assessments, disability modifications, fencing, deadlock/master key installations, ceiling fan installations, cyclical maintenance and safety checks, energy efficiency upgrades, split system installations, hostel upgrades, and property enhancements.
The ARHRP realised many tangible benefits for not only renters and their communities, but the 17 ACCOs that had works completed in approximately 2000 properties, including:
- Improved living conditions, health, safety, and wellbeing.
- Enhanced renter experience, sense of ownership, and pride.
- Reduced energy costs and positive environmental impacts.
- Increased property values and reduced maintenance costs.
Following the completion of the program…
- 2128 homes across Victoria received capital upgrades and maintenance works.
- 28 Kids Under Cover Studios were installed to provide an independent space for young people while keeping them connected to family and community.
- 1185 cyclical maintenance and safety checks were undertaken.
- 718 property upgrades completed such as flooring, painting, kitchens and bathrooms.
- 393 split systems installed.
- 632 solar panels and electric hot water systems upgraded to reduce utility costs.