LIZ WALSH -VIC SOCIALIST CANDIDATE -MARIBYRNONG COUNCIL

LIZ WALSH RESPONDS TO OUR REPORT CARD

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

Yes, most definitely.

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?

It is criminally low. We need a massive expansion in public housing in this state and an investment in improving the condition of public housing. Public housing is better than community housing. I oppose the "public housing renewal scheme". The privatisation of public housing land will be a loss we experience for many generations.

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

Yes. There is greater security of tenure in public housing than community housing and there are greater controls on the cost of rent. The private rental market is too expensive for many low income people. Domestic violence is the largest driver of homelessness of women and their children because there is not enough public and emergency housing.

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

I have not been homeless. But Ive had friends who are homeless, not sleeping rough, but who have very insecure housing (couch surfing) or are housed by Berry St etc.

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

Yes, it's a problem that social housing is now used interchangeably with public housing by government and many housing advocates.

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

Not at all. As a councillor i would make it clear that when i talk about public housing, i mean public housing..

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?

Of course.

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

Yes, 100%

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

Yes, the Victorian Socialists are for a massive expansion in public housing. We need to build more stock. The pitiful amounts proposed by state Labor is laughable.


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

Yes. As a councillor, i would work to earmark land in my area for more public housing and campaign for that to happen.