Redevelopment of the Wayside Chapel began today, with the turning of the first sod on the construction site of the new buildings.

Minister for Housing and Member for Sydney Tanya Plibersek joined NSW Premier Kristina Keneally, Reverend Graham Long, and Wayside Chapel supporters to mark the occasion.

Ms Plibersek said the Gillard Labor Government is providing $3 million to the redevelopment.

“This project will touch the lives of the tens of thousands of people that visit the Wayside Chapel each year for services, help and support,” Ms Plibersek said.

“This funding will enable Wayside Chapel staff to continue providing invaluable services to some of Sydney’s most disadvantaged residents for years to come.

“The project will support local jobs during construction while providing employment and training opportunities for disadvantaged members of the community. It is a great example of different levels of government working together to build better communities.”

Anthony Albanese, Minister for Infrastructure and Local Government, said that the Wayside Chapel had provided unconditional care and support to people on the streets of Sydney for more than 40 years.

“The project includes a brand new modern four-storey building to replace three of the four existing terraces,” Mr Albanese said.

“The new Wayside Chapel will also feature facilities for rain water collection and a publicly accessible, educational garden space capable of growing produce for the on-site café.”

Ms Plibersek and Mr Albanese congratulated the NSW Government and the local community for their efforts in partnering with the Federal Government to make the Wayside Chapel Redevelopment Project a reality.

The Gillard Labor Government is spending $4.9 billion over four years to address homelessness, with an additional $400 million from the States and Territories.