Information regarding public housing class action against the Victorian Government

Inner Melbourne Community Legal (IMCL) has filed a class action against the Victorian Government on behalf of public housing residents in North Melbourne and Flemington at the Supreme Court of Victoria.

The claim states the government failed to properly consider the human rights of residents when it made the decision to “retire and redevelop” all public housing towers by 2051. IMCL’s CEO, Elisa Buggy, said the way the government made its decision was also incompatible with the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006 (Vic).

What does the class action mean for you?

You do not have to move or agree to move from your home now. We are asking the government to properly consider the human rights of residents when making any decisions about the redevelopment of the towers.

Under the Charter, residents have the right to live free from arbitrary or unlawful interference with home and with family, the right to have families protected, the right to have the best interests of children be protected, property rights, and the right to security.

We are asking the government for complete transparency about its decisions, why they were made, and their impact on your human rights. Victorians should know how and why government has made key decisions that impact an individual’s rights. People who live in public housing and whose rights are directly impacted by this decision have a right to know.  

IMCL is also asking the government to properly consult with residents before making any decisions and allow you to have a say into the future of your home.

What do you need to do?

The lead plaintiff has filed the class action on behalf of public housing residents in North Melbourne and Flemington, which means all people residing in the towers in these suburbs are automatically included in the legal proceedings. This is because the decision to redevelop the estates and the process being undertaken affects all residents similarly.

At this point, you do not need to do anything. There are no legal costs for residents, except for the lead plaintiff if the claim is unsuccessful. People can also obtain a copy of the documents filed at supremecourt.vic.gov.au.

What happens next?

There will be an initial hearing to discuss preliminary issues about the case and a timetable to resolve the matter will be drafted. The government will explain its defence, and the lead plaintiff will be given an opportunity to respond. Once the parameters of the claim have been established, residents will be issued with a notice that details available options.

Free information and legal help

Residents can contact IMCL for free legal advice at (03) 9328 1885 between 9am and 5pm or by email at [email protected]. •