Glenroy housing to improve quality of life for injured Victorians

01 Apr 2016

Four seriously injured Victorians can now embrace living independently, thanks to a new housing development in Glenroy.

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) has secured four units through the Residential Independence Pty Ltd (RIPL) project for TAC clients who were previously living in care homes or with their parents.

Minister for Finance Robin Scott and Member for Pascoe Vale Lizzie Blandthorn visited the property in Glenroy to commemorate its completion.

"We are addressing the state-wide shortage of accommodation for severely injured Victorians by providing housing that allows people to regain independence in their lives," Mr Scott said

"Now, the likes of Jimmy Baker, who studies locally, will live closer to his TAFE and have the support he needs to live as independently as possible."

Mr Scott said the accommodation is helping people seriously injured in crashes live in a safe, supported environment while at the same time allowing them to live with the independence they deserve.

About 5000 Victorians are seriously injured in crashes each year, 90 of whom suffer quadriplegia or severe acquired brain injuries.

The $30 million RIPL program recognises that being dependent on others for simple, everyday tasks is a major barrier to regaining quality of life following a debilitating injury.

Residents now share an innovative model of support, including an integrated home automation system allowing them to communicate with support staff and use a smart phone or tablet to control features such as lighting, blinds, windows and doors.

The Glenroy site is the fourth RIPL accommodation to be opened, with all four residents having moved in to their new homes in the past few weeks. A fifth unit on site is dedicated to full-time on call support staff.

James Baker is one of four new residents at RIPL Glenroy

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