DENNIS FITZGERALD- INDEPENDENT CANDIDATE- WHITEHORSE

 DENNIS FITZGERALD RESPONDS TO OUR REPORT CARD

"Thank-you for your email. I  have read your material and my responses are below. Although I have not faced homelessness personally I have several friends who now as seniors are facing a degree of homelessness and are relying on friends for accommodation."

Regards

Dennis Fitzgerald

1. Do you support Public Housing as an integral part of the housing mix?

A. Yes, there is a need and a right for people to have safe accommodation and that may need to be provided as part of public housing.

2. In Victoria, Public Housing as distinct from Community Housing, makes up 2.7% of all housing.
Is this too high? Is this too low?

A. It is too high in that people should have their own housing although the reality is that this isn't always possible. It is too low in that there is a greater need.

3. Is Public Housing the best model for preventing and addressing homelessness?

A. It is part of the answer but just one part. There is often a need for further supports, food, education, medical and mental care.

4. Have you or anyone in your family or friendship circle ever been homeless?

A. Yes, but not long term actual 'sleeping on the street' homeless. It was similar to university days when they have had to couch surf.

5. Do you think the language regarding the various housing models should be more transparent?

A. Yes, and available in multiple languages and with support to process what can be very complex.

6. Do you think the issue of Public Housing versus Community Housing has been sufficiently discussed in the public domain?

A. No, as it is difficult to resolve so politicians avoid it. It is also uncomfortable for many people so that want to either ignore or deny it.

7. Should public tenants and those eligible for public housing be sufficiently informed of the differences between Community and Public Housing and of their rights and protections?

A. Yes

8. Do you oppose the transferring of Public Housing stock to Community Housing corporations?

I think public housing is a better solution but need to look at this in more detail.

9. Do you support a significant build of Public Housing in your area to address homelessness?

A. Yes

10. Would public land that is being earmarked for private and 'Social Housing’ be better utilised for Public Housing?

A. Yes.

Thanks from 

Friends of Public Housing Vic

Defend and Extend Public Housing 

Hands Off Public Housing