Junction has unveiled its new $36 million housing and services hub at Tonsley, including 50 new social homes for South Australians.

Thrive Tonsley comprises a mix of studio, one and two-bedroom apartments across eight levels. It is also the new head office for Junction’s expanding workforce of around 400 staff.

Junction CEO Maria Palumbo said the development ushered in a new, ambitious era for Junction while providing much needed housing and support for South Australians.

“This is about delivering solutions for our community in a really practical and innovative way,” Ms Palumbo said.

“It shows who we are as an organisation and where we are heading, strengthening the support we provide to communities while expanding our impact.”

The purpose-built social housing development is supported by $15.2 million investment as part of the Social Housing Accelerator Program, a Federal Government initiative delivered in partnership with the State Government and community housing providers.

Thrive Tonsley includes a downstairs café and community spaces providing an accessible, flexible and welcoming environment for those who live and work there.

Meantime, a second stage of the project is also now well underway. The adjacent $35.3m million build-to-rent development will comprise 63 affordable apartments and is underpinned by a $25.6 million boost from the/ Housing Australia Future Fund Facility (HAFFF).

Due for completion by April next year, Ms Palumbo said Stage 2 would support the growing ‘missing middle’ co hort.

“These are often young people who are in good, stable work but still can’t get a foot in the door of the housing market,” she said.

Ms Palumbo said the Tonsley location aligned strongly with Junction’s focus on innovation, connection and placemaking.

“This is a precinct built on transformation and future thinking, which makes it a perfect fit for us,” she said.

“Junction has risen to meet the changing needs of the community for almost 50 years and here, we will continue to evolve to positively impact communities for the next 50 – and beyond.”

Junction has partnered with Schiavello and Brown Falconer to deliver both Thrive Tonsley Stage 1 and Stage 2.

Established in 1979, Junction supports more than 10,000 South Australians a year through housing, community services and programs.