Rinehart puts $200m into ‘disgraceful’ veterans housing crisis

Gina Rinehart has described as a “national crisis and disgrace” the number of homeless veterans and war heroes in Australia, as Hancock Prospecting announced a $200 million commitment to buy them homes.

In what is being described as the largest ever private funding offer for veterans in the country’s history, the money will be spent helping thousands of reportedly homeless veterans.

“I was shocked to learn recently that more than 6000 veterans are homeless,” Mrs Rinehart said.

“This is unacceptable. I hope that others will also actively and generously help to lessen this tragedy.”

Hancock Prospecting said that buildings across Australia were being assessed and if suitable they will be converted into residential accommodation for veterans.

“Existing hotels, motels and apartment blocks are being prioritised, as they can be rapidly repurposed without the years of approval and delays associated with new construction,” a statement from Hancock Prospecting said.

Two years ago, Mrs Rinehart backed the $10 million conversion of units in South Perth to create the Sir Valston Hancock House emergency accommodation facility named in honour of Mrs Rinehart’s uncle, who served as the chief of the Royal Australian Air Force from 1961 to 1965.

“The housing crisis, a crisis made critical by government approvals and permits delaying new housing and the ability to extend houses, high government taxes adding to costs, and record high immigration causing hosting shortages, has affected many Australians,” Mrs Rinehart said.

She believes spare accommodation in defence barracks such as Leeuwin and Irwin in WA should be made available to veterans immediately.

Australian Air Force Association WA chief executive Michelle Fyfe said the Sir Valston House project had proven the need for accommodation.

“We know demand continues to outstrip supply, particularly for older veterans and those with complex needs,” she said.

“The success of this program is driving RAAFA’s continued investment in expanding veteran accommodation and support services, including the Andrew Russell Veteran Living program.

“Our focus remains clear, to ensure that no veteran is left without support, without connection, or without a place to call home.”