General News
1 November, 2025
Affordable housing milestone reached in Warracknabeal
THE Yarriambiack Shire Council had reached a significant milestone in its affordable housing initiative, with six of the seven planned units now completed, including the new Warracknabeal unit in Anderson Street, which was finalised in mid-October and has recently had its landscaping completed.
The $2.8 million project, funded through round two of the Victorian Government’s Regional Infrastructure Fund in 2022, has delivered two units each in Murtoa and Woomelang, and one in both Warracknabeal and Rupanyup.
The final unit in Hopetoun is under construction and expected to be finished by June 2026.
Mayor Kylie Zanker said the project has realised Council’s vision to create alternative housing options for older residents.
“The funding has allowed the realisation of the Council’s vision to offer alternative housing options for our older residents,” she said.
“The primary goal is to provide downsizing opportunities into smaller, energy-efficient houses that require less maintenance, catering specifically to the needs of the aging population.”
The Shire has entered a 50-year lease agreement with Dunmunkle Lodge, which will manage the units in Murtoa, Warracknabeal, Rupanyup and Hopetoun.
“This proactive partnership combines securing funds for housing expansion with collaborating with a reputable not-for-profit, Shire-based organisation for future management,” Cr Zanker said.
Council’s chief executive, Tammy Smith, confirmed the Warracknabeal unit is already allocated, with Dunmunkle Lodge in the process of selecting a tenant for Rupanyup.
“The units are built to provide options for our older residents who wish to downsize, freeing up larger housing stock within our Shire,” she said.
“This then provides options for families to move to our community.
Ms Smith encouraged anyone interested in similar housing opportunities to register with Dunmunkle Lodge, which is also building additional units in Murtoa.
She added that while the focus remains on housing for older residents, “there is considerable demand for worker accommodation, and some units may also be allocated for this purpose as needed.”
Mayor Zanker extended thanks to the Victorian Government for supporting the project.
“A strong example of how local and state governments can work together with community organisations to strengthen rural living opportunities.”
