Franklin Charity House

Five local charities that provide services for homeless and disadvantaged Canberrans are set to benefit from a partnership between the ACT Government and Canberra’s peak construction organisation.
To be known as ‘Franklin Charity House’, the Land Development Agency (LDA) will provide a block of land in Franklin to the Master Builder Association of the ACT (Master Builders ACT) and its members to co-ordinate the supply of labour and materials for the construction of the four bedroom house.
The two storey, two garage, 386 square metre, 7 star thermal rated house, designed by Guy Mahoney from Designs by Mahoney will be built by Classic Constructions. The house is set be auctioned in late 2012.

The high thermal rating will be achieved by its orientation on the block and its modern slab construction together with the use of double glazed windows and extensive insulation.

The house will also feature an 8,000 litre rainwater tank and the lower level will be built to Adaptable Housing standards making it accessible for older people and people who may have physical disabilities.

The Franklin Charity House will be located in a quiet suburban street with city views to the south and close to public transport and schools.

The charities to benefit when the house is sold by auction are the YWCA of Canberra, Youthcare Canberra, Canberra Men’s centre, Toora Women and Inanna.

Each of the charities work to provide services to specific members of the Canberra community who are either homeless or in danger of becoming homeless and includes young people, older men and women and women with dependent children.

“I congratulate members of the building industry in this city who have a long and proud history of supporting worthy causes and Franklin Charity House is certainly no exception.” said ACT Chief Minister Katy Gallagher.

“The funds raised will support organisations who work with some of the most vulnerable in our community including women and children escaping domestic violence and young people who are either homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

“This partnership is a real practical example of how the public and private sector can work together for the common good of the Canberra community.”

During the winter months of 2012 the Franklin Charity House will be opened as a display house where information sessions will be held for the public on energy efficient building techniques.

“We are looking forward to the prospect of displaying this modern 7 star energy rated family home with ‘Adaptable’ design features next year.” said John Miller, Executive Director of the Master Builders ACT.

“This project demonstrates the wonderful generosity of the building and construction industry as Master Builders ACT works with its members to help address local homelessness issues.”

The Franklin Charity House will be officially launched by the ACT Chief Minister at the Charity House site on 20 December 2011.

www.franklincharityhouse.org.au

http://www.facebook.com/franklincharityhouse

Further information contact:
David Leitch Master Builders ACT
Tel: (02) 6175 5970