The first home to be built under a $39.5 million Government scheme to refurbish or replace community houses across Victoria has been officially opened by the Minister for Community Services Sherryl Garbutt.

Ms Garbutt joined four new residents, families and neighbours for a housewarming at the new home in Young Street, Sunshine.

'I am pleased to see the residents are very excited about their new home and are settling in well.

'Under stage one of the scheme, 42 new homes will be built and eight will be refurbished to replace a poorer quality house in the same suburb.'

Ms Garbutt said the Government had allocated $39.5 million over three years in last year's State Budget for the Strategic Replacement and Refurbishment program.

'The program supports the goals of the State Disability Plan, which outlines the Government's 10-year vision to support the rights and individual aspirations of people with disabilities in the community.

'We want people with disabilities to have the same opportunities to contribute and benefit from community life as any other Victorians.'