Wednesday, 18 March 2026

 Anasina GRAY-BARBERIO (Northern Metropolitan) (13:01): (2244) My question is to the Minister for Housing and Building. Not only is the Allan Labor government’s demolition of Melbourne’s public housing towers displacing residents, it is also stripping away free shared community spaces that people rely on. At 12 Holland Court and 120 Racecourse Road in Flemington, residents have long had free access to onsite community rooms to gather for women’s groups, host events and celebrate cultural events. Those spaces are now closed. Residents are being pushed to use alternatives like the Djerring hub, which charges higher fees which most community groups cannot afford, even at discounted rates. Minister, constituents are contacting my office in desperation, because for them affordable and accessible community spaces are protective factors against isolation, loneliness and ill health. These spaces also strengthen social ties. Minister, what are you doing to ensure public housing tower residents can still access shared community spaces during ongoing relocations and public housing demolitions?