The development, to be undertaken by Uniting, will create 15 new social and affordable dwellings for the Port Macquarie over-55s community.

Member for Port Macquarie Leslie Williams said it’s an exciting milestone in the rollout of the ground-breaking $1.1 billion program.

“I am delighted to see the first sod turned on this quality new housing development,which will be of great benefit to our older residents,” Mrs Williams said.

“The NSW Government is working together with private and not-for-profit organisations to increase the supply of social and affordable homes.”

Minister for Families, Communities and Disability Services Gareth Ward said organisations receiving funding under the SAHF are required to provide accommodation, tailored services for tenants and data reporting.

“The SAHF gives people on the social housing waiting list and those seeking affordable housing with homes and links to services they need to work toward greater independence,” Mr Ward said

“This is another example of the NSW Government working hard to provide evidence based solutions to help the wider community.” Uniting, the services arm of the Uniting Church, is building the homes on vacant land.

“As a mission driven organisation, providing quality affordable housing for vulnerable sectors of our community, including older people, is a priority for Uniting,” said Uniting Director of Property and Housing, Simon Furness.

The SAHF was established in 2016 using seed capital from the NSW Government, with 3,400 new dwellings to be built under the program.