The first tender for a $12 million Waterloo Green Neighbourhood pilot program for Housing NSW’s six high rise buildings in Redfern, Sydney, has been announced.
The program has been modelled on similar projects in other cities which have been successful in reducing vandalism and anti-social behaviour.
The Marrickville Community Training Centre Incorporated (MTC) is the successful tenderer and will manage and deliver 'Neighbourhood Link, which is the backbone of the project. MTC will be required to provide training and employment opportunities for up to 12 social housing tenants per year over the three-year contract.
By the time Neighbourhood Link is up and running later this year, all six of Waterloo’s high rise buildings will have concierge style offices in their foyers manned by specially trained tenants who will act as welcome and information staff during the day and security officers at night.
Another two tenders are now being considered for rolling out the Neighbourhood Security Service and the Neighbourhood Repair Service.
"The Security Service will be responsible for monitoring CCTV cameras 24 hours a day and patrolling the buildings and grounds night and day — they also run the photo-identification security access system," says Frank Terenzini, Housing Minister.
The Repair Service will work with Housing NSW Contractors Spotless to carry out repairs at Housing NSW properties throughout the inner city.
"During the three year pilot, the project will provide over 120 social housing residents with paid traineeships in community services, trade and security," Terenzini says. The Neighbourhood Project
