Advance Housing warmly welcomes the Australian Government’s announcement of $8.1 million funding from the Regional Precincts and Partnership Program. This supports the $22.5 million Spencer Street Precinct Project in central Albany. 

This is a key milestone in progressing the mixed-use development which will help create a connected precinct that supports commercial and educational activity alongside additional social and affordable housing in central Albany. 

It also represents a second, separate government funding announcement supporting the project, following the Western Australian Government’s Regional Housing Support Fund commitment announced on 5 August 2026. 

Advance Housing Chief Executive Officer John Lysaught said the announcement provides important momentum for a project designed to respond to the changing needs of the Albany community. 

“We warmly welcome this support from the Australian Government. It represents a significant step forward for a project that has been carefully planned and has already secured development approval. 

 “This site has remained vacant and undeveloped for decades, and this funding announcement marks the culmination of years of planning and collaboration to unlock the potential of this important part of Albany.” 

“Providing high-quality housing for a diverse range of community members, alongside key services such as tertiary education, creates opportunities for people, strengthens communities, and supports sustainable regional development.” 

“We sincerely thank both the Australian and Western Australian Governments for recognising the importance of this project and for investing in its progression. Their complementary support provides strong momentum as Advance Housing continues working with education providers, local stakeholders and other funding partners.” 

The Spencer Street Precinct Project will deliver 18 high-quality, energy-efficient social and affordable homes in a central and highly accessible location. The housing will be close to employment, education, shops, essential services and community facilities, helping residents remain connected to the opportunities and services they need.  

The project will also redevelop two existing buildings to provide approximately 725 square metres of contemporary commercial space intended for tertiary education use. The redevelopment will retain the historic façades of the buildings, preserving an important part of Albany’s built character while giving the properties a renewed long-term purpose.  

Pictured (L-R)

Advance Housing Chairperson Peter Adams; Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories Kristy McBain; Advance Housing CEO John Lysaught; Senator Dorinda Cox; City of Albany Mayor Greg Stocks; City of Albany CEO Andrew Sharpe

Image credit of Laurie Benson of Albany Advertiser.