The importance of having a strong voice in government has been highlighted recently, with NSW Nationals Upper House MP Sam Farraway securing a great outcome for the people of Orange East.
Mr Farraway said after many meetings with Minister responsible for Housing Melinda Pavey, the community’s voice on the proposed Orange East project has been heard, but there is still work to be done.
“I have had many constructive and what I would call positive discussions with the Minister and her advisers on the proposed project and how it does not currently meet community expectations,” Mr Farraway said.
“I am happy that the Land and Housing Corporation (LAHC) has acknowledged that they need to do further community consultation here in Orange – but I want assurance that the people who call Orange East home, and have done so for years will not be forced to leave this community.”
Mr Farraway acknowledged the changing needs for social housing in the Orange region but said that a balance can be found on this issue if further localised research is undertaken by LAHC.
“I don’t think anyone in Orange East is against social housing and the important role it plays in supporting our communities vulnerable in their greatest times of need,” Mr Farraway said.
“We as a government have a responsibility towards all citizens of NSW and we need to find a balanced solution for the housing shortage that does not put families and individuals under a cloud of uncertainty of their future.”
Mr Farraway said that the decision to hold a community forum next year was a promising start towards a collaborative approach to social and affordable housing in the local community.
“After speaking with the people of Orange East it was clear to me that the only way to move forward was to bring all parties together and this forum will do just that,” Mr Farraway said.
“We’ve gone back to the drawing board and now we need government, council, LAHC and the community to come together, share ideas and discuss future plans, this is a big win for the Orange East community and the future of social and affordable housing in the region.
“Orange East should be a textbook example of how social and affordable housing can have a long term positive impact on a community. I am looking forward to continuing these discussions and seeing what new ideas are brought to the table.”
Mr Farraway said he would continue to work with the local community, Orange City Council and the Minister to ensure a suitable balance was agreed upon by all parties after further consultations occur in the New Year.
