Mernda housing project receives federal funding boost
Published on 23 January 2025
The City of Whittlesea has welcomed $7.1 million in Federal Government funding to build the infrastructure which will support the delivery of 35 new homes on Johnsons Road, Mernda.
Council successfully applied for a grant under the Federal Government’s Housing Support Program to assist in the delivery of road and civil infrastructure to the subdivision.
The infrastructure works will include the reconstruction of Johnsons Road between Schotters Road and the Plenty River, establishment of shared paths and public space, and protection of existing mature trees.
In late 2021, Council resolved to subdivide land at 17-19 Johnsons Road into 35 lots to help meet the growing demand for housing in the Mernda community.
Thirty-two of the lots will be sold on the open market and the remaining three either sold or leased to a registered Community Housing Organisation for affordable housing.
With the funding secure, Council will in the coming months conduct detailed design work ahead of the land being subdivided into lots ranging from 194 square metres to 454 square metres.
Once the land is subdivided, Council will launch a competitive tender process for the construction of the subdivision and associated infrastructure.
The Johnsons Road housing development is ideally located close to schools, public transport, medical services and the future regional sports precinct.
Quotes attributable to City of Whittlesea Mayor, Councillor Aidan McLindon:
The City of Whittlesea welcomes this critical $7.1 million investment in the Johnsons Road residential development in Mernda.
This funding will deliver essential infrastructure to support delivery of 35 homes, of which three will be affordable housing, providing much-needed homes close to schools, services and public transport.
This project is an exciting step forward in addressing housing supply and creating vibrant, connected communities in our municipality.
This project demonstrates how different levels of government can work together to deliver for the community.