What is Community Housing?

Community Housing is part of the Housing NSW public housing system.
Across New South Wales there are a number of Housing Associations and Co-operatives who provide housing for low and very low income families to around 20,000 households.
Generally speaking people are housed on a proirity basis depending on their individual circumstances.

Details in multiple languages are available from the Community Housing Divisions web site. Click here.

Eligibility

Before you can apply for Community Housing you need to be currently on or added to the Housing NSW waiting list. In order to be on that list you will need to provide full details of your income, family and current accommodation. Also, you must be capable of living independently.
A list of Community Housing providers can be obtained from the directory maintained by The NSW Federation of  Housing Associations Inc. Click here.

Applying for Housing

In metropolitan areas there is usually more than one housing provider.
You will need to contact them to obtain an application form and find out if they have any other requirements or conditions.
More than likely there will be a long waiting list of people waiting to be housed.

Please NOTE
A new application system known as NSW Housing Pathways commenced on 27th April 2010. New forms are now available.

You will also need to attend an interview and supply the following information:

• proof of income for all intended occupants.

• evidence of any other condition which affects your ability to find private rental accommodation.

• evidence of any medical condition.

• evidence of any other special circumstances which have contributed to your current housing situation.

How will my application be assessed?
Our staff will assess all of your information to see if you meet the eligibility criteria. If you are eligible you will then be put on the Housing NSW waiting list which is prioritized according to need.

Type of housing available
There are two main types of housing: those owned by Housing NSW known as "Capital" properties; others are leased from the private rental market and are known as "Leasehold" properties.
These are predominately units and townhouses with some others being free standing homes.

Later in 2010 additional properties owned by Link Housing will be allocated on a priority basis to eligible persons who are on the NSW Housing register.

 
What does it cost?
Rent
Rents are calculated as set out in the Housing NSW Community Housing Rental Policy. This varies from time to time, but is currently (in summary):
25% of each person 21 years or older's gross income.
100% of any Commonwealth Rent Assistance you may be eligible for.
15% of gross income for those 18 to 20 years of age.
15% of any Family Tax Benefit.

The total of these amounts will be your rent. The only exception will be if your calculated rent is high than the "Market Rent" for the property you are allocated, then you will be charged market rent. Rents are reviewed every six months. For a copy of the full policy  click here.

Bond
Most Housing providers will charge a bond. This may vary depending on the provider's own policy.

Water Usage
You will be billed for the water you use whilst occupying the property.

Damage
If you cause any damage to the property you will be charged for the repairs or replacement.

Pets
Many of the properties are not suitable for pets. You will be advised if pets are allowed if you are offered a property.

Complaints and Appeals

For full details about complaints handling including how to appeal,   click here