Key workers arrive in new Mallee homes
06/01/2026We’ve helped to transform an empty cul-de-sac in Irymple into a new neighbourhood of key workers, following the construction of 10 houses.
The new houses are the latest accommodation to be delivered through the Regional Worker Accommodation Fund, which invests in projects that help regional employers attract and retain essential workers.
In Irymple, this includes Sean Dowsley, who runs the Country Bunch Early Learning Centre.
“This accommodation has been critical to our business and being able to provide this service to the community,” he said.
“It’s been essential to securing new staff – some of whom have joined us from Melbourne and New Zealand, such is the local demand for childcare.”
Similarly, the new homes are helping employees to pursue careers in regional Victoria and to live closer to where they work.
One such employee is Tom, who moved to Irymple to develop his career with Victoria Police. Tom is now a key part of the community – both professionally through law enforcement, and personally, through his connections in town such as the local footy club.
Completed by local builder MCBG Karadoc, the project also created new jobs and engaged 51 local businesses, from hardware suppliers and fence-builders through to electricians and tilers.
“This project is exactly what we stand for,” said MCBG Karadoc Director Ben Garraway.
“Building with purpose and leaving a lasting, positive impact on the community we serve.”
“This project has successfully provided accommodation for essential workers employed by local businesses in our area.”
Since the project's initiation, we have also expanded our team by hiring four new staff members, including two apprentices,” added Ben.
The Irymple accommodation adds to the more than 40 projects being supported by the Regional Worker Accommodation Fund, unlocking around $370 million in new housing investment for thousands of regional workers.
For further information, visit Regional Worker Accommodation Fund.