Deadline for the Approval of LALC Social Housing Schemes

December 5, 2013

This network message is to remind LALCs that the deadline for NSWALC's approval of LALC social housing schemes is the 30^th June 2014.

This only leaves six (6) months to obtain NSWALC approval.

 LALCs have the option of obtaining NSWALC's approval in two ways.

1. LALCs may decide to head lease their properties to the Aboriginal Housing Office (AH) under the Build and grow arrangements. It is well known that head leasing is a land dealing that requires NSWALC approval prior to entry into the head lease (If you require further information or assistance with a land dealing contact the commercial unit at least 2 months prior (April 2014) to the deadline), OR;
2. LALCs may seek to continue to operate their social housing schemes and should do so using the Social housing Approval and Provider Evaluation Guidelines (SHAPE).

LALCs should refer to NSWALC's policy and the SHAPE guidelines on the approval of social housing schemes that have been widely distributed and are consistent with the requirements of the ALRA.

LALCs should note that whilst there are currently other assessment systems in place including PARS or the Regulatory Code these assessments are not a substitute for NSWALC approval under the SHAPE guidelines.

If they have not already done so LALCs should now determine how they wish to operate their social housing schemes in the future, beyond the deadline of 30 June 2014. They should then take the necessary steps to apply to NSWALC for approval to enter into a head lease (land dealing) or make an application using the SHAPE guidelines for approval to continue to operate their social housing schemes.

LALCs will need to submit applications for land dealings or approval under SHAPE before the 30^th June 2013 to enable NSWALC time to assess and approve the remaining social housing schemes before the deadline.

LALCs without an approved social housing scheme or headlease to the AHO after 30 June 2014 will be in breach of the ALRA. NSWALC wants to assist LALCs to avoid such a breach.

LALCs are encouraged to seek guidance from their Zone Office to ensure that they make the 30 June 2014 deadline.