In a rare piece of good news for affordable housing in South Gippsland, a small strip of disused road in Foster could soon become the site of much-needed community housing units, thanks to unanimous council support for Linton Court’s expansion plans.
South Gippsland Shire Council has commenced the statutory process to discontinue Rooney Street, Foster – a 3,241 square metre unused government road – paving the way for Linton Court Elderly People's Homes Society Inc. to purchase the land from the state government and develop new accommodation.
Councillor Scott Rae championed the proposal at last Wednesday's meeting, praising the community housing provider's outstanding contribution to the region. "In a world where we don't have a lot of social and affordable housing, they do go above and beyond," Cr Rae told the chamber. "They bat well above their weight with what goes on there, and if this all goes to plan they'll be able to build new units."
Linton Court Elderly People's Homes Society, which provides community-owned housing for elderly residents, has identified the adjacent unused road as an ideal location for expansion. The discontinuation of the road is a necessary first step that will allow the state government to sell the land directly to the society.
"What a great thing it is," added Councillor Sarah Gilligan, seconding the motion that passed without opposition.
The council will now undertake a public consultation process, with notices to be published on Council's website and in local newspapers during the week commencing July 21, 2025. Community members will have until 5pm Tuesday, August 19, 2025, to lodge written submissions about the proposal.
If submissions are received, the Chief Executive Officer will arrange a public hearing for those wishing to speak in support of their views, with a further report to be presented to Council. If no objections arise, the road discontinuance will be gazetted, clearing the way for the sale to proceed. Cara Schultz
