Council & Politics
10 October, 2025
14 new homes on the horizon
MORE progress is being made towards easing Stawell’s housing shortage with a new development being planned in Darcy Street. The Elmstone Property Group has unveiled plans to deliver 14 new one bedroom homes at 56 Darcy Street under a planning permit issued by Northern Grampians Shire Council.
The Shire has recently approved the engineering plans for stormwater infrastructure, alongside approvals from NBN, Powercor, and Downer Gas.
Approval from Grampians Wimmera Mallee Water is still outstanding, and once approved, the project can proceed to tender.
A local builder is also finalising costings for the residential build to commence the project.
This project comes at a critical time for the Stawell community.
Like much of regional Victoria, Stawell is experiencing a severe shortage of rental properties, with very low vacancy rates placing pressure on workers, families, and older residents trying to secure housing.
Developer Stuart Benjamin said the development will increase the local rental pool by 14 homes in a market where supply is extremely constrained while providing affordable, purpose-built accommodation that meets contemporary standards of design, safety, and amenity.
He said the homes will also ease rental stress for individuals and families, particularly key workers and low-income renters who are most affected by the lack of available housing.
Mr Benjamin noted the proactive support from the Northern Grampians Shire Council.
"We have projects in 14 different Victorian Councils, with Northern Grampians and Ararat being our favourite places to invest. A very experienced planning, engineering and economic development team makes the decision to spend our own money a little easier,” he said.
Mr Benjamin is also hoping to announce the financial close for a long-awaited project in St Arnaud in the next few weeks.
"St Arnaud is one of the more expensive places to build in Victoria, with one of the largest rental demands.
“The rental market in St Arnaud is having a direct impact on the community and the ability for businesses to attract specialised staff for growth. We have been working with the Council for nearly three years to try and get more housing into this community."
“With completion expected in early 2027, the new Stawell homes will provide much-needed relief for a rental market that has been under sustained pressure for years,” he said.
Elmstone have already received enquiries from renters for these new homes, even before a sod has been turned.
The 14 home project will not only deliver much needed accommodation in Stawell, it will also support local jobs during construction, with the $4 million project engaging with builders, trades, and suppliers from the region.
Read More: Stawell