The former New South Wales Minister for Infrastructure, Cities and Active Transport has been announced as the new Chair of Faith Housing Alliance, the peak body representing community housing providers, organisations and individuals united by a faith mission, National Tribune reports.
“Housing and planning reform have been key themes across my 16 years in politics, and as Chair, I intend to be a clear voice for housing justice,” said Stokes.
“The lack of stable and safe social and affordable housing in NSW and across Australia has been at crisis levels for some time, but now with rent inflation affecting both cities and regional areas, rebounding migration and the soaring cost of basic living expenses, hundreds of thousands of households are at risk.
“Member organisations with a faith-driven purpose, like Anglicare, Muslimcare and Wesley Mission, are committed to providing more than just a roof – and they have experience developed over generations of supporting individuals and families with wrap-around services that make tenancies sustainable and break the cycle of homelessness.
“Community Housing Providers with a faith mission are already making a significant impact, with four of our members responsible for delivering 65% of the housing under the NSW Social and Affordable Housing Fund. Amelie Housing, Anglicare Sydney, BaptistCare NSW & ACT, and Uniting NSW & ACT have co-contributed resources to make thousands of new homes feasible.
“I’m also looking forward to opening up discussions with denominational leaders about innovative partnerships should they feel called to use their land for housing justice,” said Stokes.
“Housing is consistently a top concern for Australians, but for many, it is beyond critical, as without stable shelter, lives fall apart. We’ve all got a part to play in tackling this crisis,” Stokes emphasised.
FULL STORY
Rob Stokes appointed as incoming Chair of Faith Housing Alliance (National Tribune)
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