Frankston Housing To Improve Quality Of Life For Injured Victorians

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

The Transport Accident Commission (TAC) has secured eight 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 Frankston Paul Edbrooke visited the property in Frankston to commemorate its completion.

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 Frankston site is the third RIPL accommodation to be opened and the biggest yet, with all eight Frankston RIPL residents to be settled in their new homes by the end of March. Another RIPL development is set to be unveiled in Glenroy later this month.

Minister for Finance Robin Scott said: “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.”

Member for Frankston Paul Edbrooke added: “Thanks to RIPL housing opened in Abbotsford, Lilydale, now Frankston and soon Glenroy, more than 20 Victorians will be living independently when they otherwise wouldn’t have.”