The Victorian Government has recently confirmed that seven public housing towers dedicated to residents aged 55+ will be demolished and redeveloped as part of the next stage of the statewide highrise redevelopment program. This announcement has generated significant uncertainty and distress among older residents.
We confirm that four towers within our community have been included in this latest tranche, with relocations anticipated to commence from July 2026 through to 2028:
- 25 King Street, Prahran
- 27 King Street, Prahran
- 150 Inkerman Street, St Kilda
- 150 Victoria Avenue, Albert Park
Many longterm residents, some in their 80s and 90s, have expressed shock and worry about the upheaval, the physical challenges of moving, and the uncertainty surrounding future accommodation.
Our Response and Advocacy
We are actively working to support affected residents by ensuring they receive clear information, legal guidance, and access to community sessions. Our work includes:
- Ongoing communication with tenant leadership groups, including the South Yarra Public Tenants Association.
- Engagement with local community services supporting residents relocating to better understand relocation timelines and support needs.
- Attendance at upcoming community information sessions organised by local elected representatives.
- Developing of updated factsheets and accessible legal information for residents preparing for relocation.
- Advocacy coordination with statewide housing and advocacy organisations.
As a VCOSS member organisation we also confirm our support for the Joint Statement on the Redevelopment of Public Housing Towers Dedicated to Older Victorians, released on 9 February 2026 by a coalition of peak housing and aged sector organisations. The statement raises important concerns about:
- The need to maintain dedicated older persons’ housing, rather than dispersing residents across mixedtenure developments.
- Ensuring that offers of new housing are appropriate, secure, and suited to the needs of older residents.
- The requirement for a clear and wellresourced plan to support residents through the relocation and resettlement process.
You can read the full statement here: Joint Statement on Older Persons’ HighRise Redevelopment
Our organisation endorses the concerns and recommendations contained in this joint statement and will continue to advocate for redevelopment processes that genuinely uphold the safety, dignity, and rights of older residents.
How We Can Help
If you or someone you know has been affected by this announcement and would like legal information or advice, please reach out to us directly or through a support worker. To contact us directly, please phone 7037 3200 (press 2) or email info@southsidejustice.org.au.
Albert Park residents are also encouraged to reach out to Southport Community Legal Service on 9646 6066.
