The Office for Regional Housing in South Australia has selected three building companies to construct the first homes of the Regional Key Worker Housing Scheme. 

Rockford Homes, Empak Homes, and Constructwell will build 13 houses across Port Augusta, Mount Gambier, and Renmark in the state.

The scheme aims to address housing shortages in the region and retain frontline workers.

Empak has received planning approval to construct four new homes in Mount Gambier.  

The company has previously completed projects for the South Australian Housing Authority in the Limestone Coast area. 

In Renmark, Rockford is set to build five homes, supporting the local supply chain in the process by employing licensed tradespeople and craftspeople from the area.  

Meanwhile, Constructwell will be responsible for developing four homes in Port Augusta, completing the first phase of the scheme. 

Construction is expected to begin in early to mid-2024 across the three sites, with the homes anticipated to be ready for occupancy in 2025.  

The two-to-three-bedroom residences will provide accommodation for government staff such as teachers, healthcare workers, and police officers. 

Housing Industry Australia executive director Stephen Knight said: “The addition of new homes in South Australia’s regions will help replenish housing stock and draw key workers to the region.  

“It will also provide opportunities for apprentices and trainees, both young men and women who are keen to stay in their home towns. If local building businesses and suppliers can see a consistent pipeline of work ahead, they will have the confidence to invest in their future workforce.”