Six-Storey Social and Affordable Housing Complex Proposed for Butler
Development plans have been officially lodged for a significant six-storey, 60-apartment complex in Butler, Western Australia, designed to provide a mix of social and affordable housing. The $28.57 million build-to-rent project is spearheaded by DevelopmentWA, the State Government's land agency, aiming to address pressing housing needs in the region.
Project Details and Location
The proposed site, covering 10,010 square meters, is currently vacant and strategically located on the corner of Butler Boulevard and Blackrock Avenue. This prime position is approximately 200 meters from the Butler train station and the Central Shopping Centre, enhancing accessibility for residents. The complex will feature:
- 14 social dwellings
- 46 affordable units, comprising 18 one-bedroom and 42 two-bedroom homes
- 41 resident parking bays accessible via Fintona Crescent
The affordable dwellings are expected to be managed by an approved community housing provider, ensuring long-term stability for tenants.
Alignment with Government Targets
DevelopmentWA emphasizes that this project aligns with government objectives for higher-density housing and Perth's infill target of 47 percent by 2050. In development applications, the agency stated, "The proposed Multiple Dwelling Development will provide much-needed social and affordable housing within a highly accessible location." Butler's status as a District Centre in Perth's north-west has been bolstered by the Yanchep train line, which services Butler Station, making it an ideal spot for such developments.
Community and Planning Support
The City of Wanneroo has acknowledged that the project is "generally consistent with the planning intent for the area." Concerns about building height and overshadowing have been addressed, with the city noting that impacts on surrounding residential properties will be minimal and can be mitigated through detailed design measures, particularly for future stages of development on adjacent lots.
Affordable Housing Criteria
Affordable housing under this scheme offers a stable rental option for low to moderate-income individuals, including key workers like teachers, nurses, bus drivers, and childcare workers. Through the Housing Australia Future Fund program, residents pay a maximum of 74.9 percent of the market rental rate for the area. Current income eligibility thresholds for this financial year are set at $66,898 for a single person and $100,347 for a couple.
The application highlights that "tenants will be carefully selected to ensure alignment with the community they are seeking to create and the profile of the local community," promoting integration and social cohesion.
Public Consultation and Next Steps
Public consultation on the development is now open through the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage until March 5. The Western Australian Planning Commission will review all submissions before making a final decision on the application, marking a critical step in the approval process for this impactful housing initiative.
