A timely new documentary, Bay Views for All, reveals the human cost of the Victorian Government’s public housing redevelopment project, documenting residents of the Barak Beacon public housing estate as they fight to save their homes and community.
Located just three kilometres from Naarm/Melbourne’s CBD, Barak Beacon offered affordable housing with sweeping bay views. But in December 2021, just 12 days before Christmas, residents received notice that their homes would be demolished and the site redeveloped.
The film chronicles their struggle against displacement, highlighting the vulnerability of public housing tenants — many of whom have experienced homelessness, speak English as a second language, and face impossible odds in the private rental market. For older residents, the government’s promise of return after the redevelopment was an unlikely reality.
Bay Views For All premieres at RMIT’s Centre For Urban Research’s Dwelling Justice Forum on Wednesday 26 November. The documentary is available for community members, public housing advocates and organisations to screen with the intent to spark conversations, raise funds and educate audiences on the importance of public housing.
Found out more at barakbeacon.com.