Factsheet

Conversations with families Hunter Residences redevelopment

December 2017

Conversations with families

What the update on the Hunter residences redevelopment means for residents,
families and guardians.

What is happening with the redevelopment?

Progress is well underway. However, as with any construction project, especially
one as complex as Hunter Residences, there have been unexpected challenges
which are being actively managed.

As a result of these challenges, and despite careful planning and progress to

date, the Hunter Residences will not be completed by 30 June 2018.

It is understood that this is the date it was expected that all FACS-operated
disability services would transfer to non-government operators to support the
implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS).

It is important to not rush the development of these new homes. Your feedback
will be sought and incorporated and the new homes must meet the stringent
standards outlined by the NDIS and the FACS Guidelines for Group Homes.

How does this affect me, or the person I care for?

The NSW Governments highest priority is the continuity of service for people
living in Hunter residences and their safe and smooth transition to new services
that meet modern standards.

FACS would like to assure residents and families that Hunter Residences will
continue to operate until the redevelopment is completed.

FACS staff are available to talk to residents, their families and guardians and
take into account any concerns they raise. Significant consultation with residents
and their families has been undertaken since December 2013 regarding the new
accommodation options. A contract between FACS and Home4Life will ensure
that residents and families continue to be supported up until people more into
their new homes.

When will the new homes be ready?

New houses will be completed in a staged manner and it is likely that the first
houses will be available towards the end of 2018 with the remaining to follow.

www.facs.nsw.gov.au
 Factsheet
Conversations with families Hunter Residences redevelopment

Once confirmed, FACS will update residents and families on the expected
completion date for the house that concerns you or the person you care for, but in
the mean time please dont hesitate to contact FACS if you have any questions.

What progress has been made with the redevelopment?

The redevelopment is well underway. FACS has completed 11 homes, with 62
residents already moved into their new homes.

In February 2017, Home4Life was selected to develop the remaining homes and
FACS has been meeting with them on a monthly basis to plan and progress the
project.

Home4Life is a new disability housing organisation that brings together two of

Australias most experienced, respected and high performing not-for-profit
housing providers:

o Newcastle based Compass Housing, has deep roots in the Hunter and a
sound record for tenancy management, and

o BlueCHP (pronounced Blue-Chip) is a company with a sound track record

for construction excellence.

FACS has purchased land for most of remaining properties at suitable locations
chosen by residents and their families.

Designs of the new homes are well advanced, with over 70 per cent completed
by Home4Life. Home4Life are now in the process of submitting the designs for
council approval.

Further information for residents and families:

Email: servicedeliverytransfer@facs.nsw.gov.au or phone: 1800 379 284.

The Hunter Residences Consultation Unit (HRCU) is also available for any
concerns or questions. You can contact the HRCU Manager, Michele Clegg by
phone: 0423 783 755 or email: Michele.clegg@facs.nsw.gov.au

www.facs.nsw.gov.au