Today's announcement by the NSW Minister for Social Housing, Pru Goward on the plans for the redevelopment of the Waterloo housing estate represents one of the NSW Liberal National government’s largest sell offs of a public asset, according to NSW Greens Housing spokesperson, Jenny Leong MP, Member for Newtown.
“This is public land and right now there’s an urgent need for a significant action to address the housing stress people in our city are currently experiencing.
“In the current crisis, it is unacceptable that 70% of the proposed development on this public land will be turned over to corporate developers to make massive profits – it’s time to call a halt to this scam.
“The Greens want to see a radical rethink of the Waterloo redevelopment so that all public land is retained in public hands and 100% of the homes are public housing, community housing and affordable housing.
“Unlike the Liberals in NSW, we respect and value Waterloo residents who make a wonderful contribution to their community and have a clear vision for what’s needed.
“The Minister's slur on people who live in public housing is abhorrent and as usual is trying to shift the blame for her portfolio failings which have reduced funding for mental health, drug and alcohol and support services.
“We can solve the housing crisis and ensure everyone has somewhere safe, secure and affordable to call home, but it takes a change in priorities and an end to the privatisation obsession of the Liberals.
“We’ll continue to work with the Waterloo community and stand with them to defend their their community and advance their vision for positive development in Waterloo.
