Member for Monaro Steve Whan, Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty and Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart discuss plans for a new disability accommodation project. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
A new, purpose-built home helping people move forward in their lives is a step closer thanks to more than $5 million in government funding.
Named in honour of radio broadcaster Ben Fordham’s father, John Fordham House (JFH) at South Jerrabomberra will provide accommodation for people with a disability.
The project will be led by the Ricky Stuart Foundation and be delivered in partnership with the NSW Government, which has committed $5.14 million to build the JFH in south-east NSW.
“This has been a long, long time coming,” Mr Stuart said.
For Mr Stuart, there is a personal connection to his foundation’s work, which has previously delivered two disability accommodation and support projects: Ricky Stuart House in 2016 and Emma Ruby House in 2018.
“From first-hand experience with our daughter Emma, living in an independent environment now with another young lady, I see what the carers do,” he said.
“[I have seen] the love and the care the carers contribute, and there’s nothing better than having your own child [be] safe and comfortable. That’s what this house will bring to four families: a safe environment where the child will be cared for.”
Land for JFH in South Jerrabomberra was donated in 2022, when the then-NSW government also committed $4 million towards building the project.
At the time, the 2000 sqm block was valued at more than $1.5 million and a completion date of late 2024 was flagged.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said the delay was because the previous government “failed to deliver it”.
“We are delivering this project because we believe in it,” Ms Moriarty said.
The designs for JFH have been completed, with construction expected to start in mid-2026, once development applications are approved by Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council.
JFH will comprise private living spaces complemented by outdoor areas.
There will be a breakout room, kitchen, living and dining areas, a courtyard and a carer’s office with live-in facilities.
The home includes features that ensure accessibility (such as wider corridors) and will be completed with fittings, fixtures and finishes designed to provide safety.
Plans for the project have been prepared, with a development application to be lodged shortly with Queanbeyan-Palerang Regional Council. Image: CK Architecture.
State Member for Monaro Steve Whan said the project would mean regional people could stay close to home while living independently.
Once built, John Fordham House will have space for four people with a disability and their carers.
“What we see in Queanbeyan … was that a lot of people expected to find services in Canberra, and we weren’t providing them in Queanbeyan,” Mr Whan said.
“One of the things which I’ve had a passion for over many years is trying to make sure that we are addressing the needs of people, at home in Queanbeyan.”
Mr Whan said JFH would also encourage residents to engage in their local community.
“It’s in a growth area; it’ll have neighbours who make people feel really at home in their community and where life is going to be of a really high quality,” he said.
Ms Moriarty also flagged that similar projects may be on the cards for other parts of the state.
“There’s a lot of organisations that do great work, usually off the back of personal experience, [and] are passionate about delivering projects that support people across the community who need it,” she said.
“The government is here to deliver great ideas and homes and facilities based [on] people’s experience and what’s needed across the community.”
