The Announcement:
Anglicare Sydney has appointed former NSW Minister, The Hon. Rob Stokes, as Group Executive – Housing, effective June 23.
In this newly created role, Dr Stokes will lead the growth and strategic direction of Anglicare’s Housing business unit, strengthening the organisation’s focus on providing more safe and affordable homes for those most in need.
The creation of a standalone Housing division reflects Anglicare’s strategic ambition to become a major provider of community housing amid Australia’s growing housing crisis.
Anglicare Sydney Chief Executive Officer Simon Miller said the decision reflects the critical need for community housing solutions and Anglicare’s ambition to expand its impact.
“The cost-of-living and housing crisis is one of the greatest challenges facing Australians today,” Mr Miller said.
“Our research shows only one in 500 homes in Sydney is affordable for someone on income support.
“If you’re a couple on the age pension, that decreases to one in 1,000.
“Now is the time for non-profits, governments, and developers to step up and do more.
“At Anglicare, we have long been committed to providing social and affordable housing, and by appointing Rob to this role, we are sharpening our focus on delivering real, scalable solutions.”
Dr Stokes, who will remain Chair of Faith Housing Australia while taking on this new position, said he was honoured to tackle one of the most pressing social issues of our time.
“Housing justice goes to the heart of Australia’s social contract, and resolving the housing crisis is one of the biggest issues confronting our society,” Dr Stokes said.
“Increasing the supply of social and affordable housing is a fundamental part of the solution.
“Anglicare is committed to double down on its investment in social and affordable housing, which is a compelling, exciting and daunting challenge to take on.”
Anglicare currently provides approximately 700 social and affordable homes with wraparound support services.
The organisation is committed to significantly increasing its housing capacity, working with state and federal governments to drive new solutions at scale.
Mr Miller said Dr Stokes’ leadership would be instrumental in shaping Anglicare’s future in housing.
“We are not only expanding our housing footprint – we are strengthening our voice for those who need a home,” Mr Miller said.
“With Rob leading our Housing business unit, Anglicare is well-positioned to drive advocacy, innovation and scalable solutions that will make a lasting difference in people’s lives.”
