Affordable Housing – what is it and how can you access it?

1 March 2021

1 Mar 2021

There is much talk about the need for more affordable housing options across Australia.

There is also confusion about the difference between social, affordable, community and public housing, who is eligible for it, and how to access it.

VMCH offers affordable homes to more than 400 Victorians aged 55 and over.

We agree with increasingly loud calls for the development of many more secure and affordable housing options for more vulnerable members of our community.

Here are some commonly asked questions and answers from our Affordable Homes team...

What is the difference between social, affordable, public and community housing?

Social Housing  is generally used as a blanket term to cover public housing, affordable housing and community housing.  

Community housing  and affordable housing  are generally known as the same thing – just labelled differently by organisations. This type of housing is managed (and sometimes owned) by not-for-profit organisations like VMCH. They offer short and long-term, secure rental accommodation for people on low incomes. They can also cater to specific groups like people with disability, women, or older people (such as VMCH does with our over-55 age bracket).

Public housing is owned and managed by the State Government. It is long-term rental housing for people on low incomes that are most in need, especially those who have experienced homelessness, family violence or have other special needs.

How do I apply for an affordable home with VMCH?

You fill in an application form and send it to us with the requested documents. If you’re deemed eligible, we’ll send you a confirmation letter and you’ll go onto a waitlist.

Who is eligible for affordable homes with VMCH?

You need to be aged over 55, have a letter from your doctor stating you can live independently, be able to supply us with your current income and asset statement from Centrelink (assets need to be under $350,000) and the contact details or letters of support from two referees.

How long can I live there?

There is no set time frame. Some residents stay until they pass away or until they need higher care. Basically, for as long as you can live independently with or without home care.

How many affordable homes does VMCH have?

We have 376 affordable homes units (bedsits and one and two-bedrooms) in 23 locations across Melbourne. We support 458 people within our communities.

Can I live with a partner?

Yes, you can live with your partner/family member/carer if they are over 55.

Can I have a pet?

Yes, we allow one small pet (eg. dog, bird, cat.)

Are your communities safe?

Yes, all our sites are very safe and secure. Our residents are very security conscious.

Can I make changes to my affordable home?

Our units are in pretty good shape, so a lot of residents don’t really want to renovate. However, if safety modifications or equipment are needed, these can be installed. Many of our residents are keen green thumbs and like to take care of their own garden or common area.

How much does it cost?

A one-off ‘ingoing contribution’ is required if you have assets of more than $50,000. The amount varies depending on your assets and a portion may be refunded on departure, depending on the duration of your stay. Affordable rental charges vary according to the size and location of the unit and whether an ingoing contribution has been paid. The amount you will be asked to pay is based on your total assets.

Does VMCH have plans to build more homes in the future?

Yes, we are very passionate about providing affordable homes. The next project is a 40-unit (one and two-bedroom) development in Ivanhoe.

To find out more about VMCH affordable homes, visit www.vmch.com.au/affordable-homes

Written by VMCH – February 24, 2021 – View a range of our articles here.

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Acknowledgement of Country

We here at VMCH respectfully acknowledge the traditional owners of the lands on which we gather, and we would like to take a moment to honour the fact that we live on the lands of the oldest civilisation in the world. We acknowledge the stories, traditions and wisdom of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, and pay our respects to their elders past, present and emerging.