Chief Minister Katy Gallagher today planted a Crimson Sentry tree to recognise the substantially complete construction of the Franklin Charity House, which will be auctioned to raise funds for charities that work with some of Canberra's neediest people.

Under a partnership between the Land Development Agency (LDA) and the Master Builders Association (MBA) of the ACT, the LDA provided the land and the MBA coordinated its members to undertake the construction and fit-out of the 384 sqm, four bedroom, two storey, seven star energy rated house. The ground floor has been built to include Adaptable Housing standards.

"The Franklin Charity House is a great example how the community can benefit when industry and government work together," the Chief Minister said.

"This home showcases the high standard of sustainable and accessible design Canberra's builders and designers can achieve, but ultimately those in need will benefit from the proceeds of its sale."

The house was designed by Designs by Mahony and is being built by Classic Constructions. It will be auctioned by the Independent Property Group in early 2013, with proceeds from the sale being distributed to local charities that work with Canberra's homeless. The five charities to be supported are the YWCA Canberra, YouthCARE Canberra, Canberra Men's Centre, Innana and Toora Women.

In the months leading up to the auction, the Franklin Charity House will be open as a display home where information sessions will be held to encourage sustainable gardening practices. Local residents will have opportunities to see the property's high environmental standards, including an 8,000 litre water tank and the use of energy efficient building materials.

"I thank the local building industry for their generosity in supporting this worthy cause," the Chief Minister concluded.