Community Bank partnership supports emergency housing trial

A lack of housing on South Australia’s Fleurieu Peninsula is seeing people pushed out of their rental properties, living in their cars and moving between caravan parks. Explosive growth in the area over the last few years has resulted in a housing and rental price jump.

People with previously stable living arrangements may have nowhere to live. Many older women are at risk of homelessness because there is less housing to go around.

Project manager Junction Australia has found increasing numbers of older women in the Fleurieu becoming homeless. It’s a story unfolding in many parts of Australia. It’s why affordable housing is supported by a growing number of Bendigo Bank’s Community Bank partners.

Funding from Community Bank Fleurieu, Zonta Club of Fleurieu Peninsula and Fleurieu Community Foundation, with support from Elders Real Estate Victor Harbor, is trialling a sustainable and supportive co-housing solution for vulnerable women.

The project has sourced, leased and furnished a residence and provides property maintenance and case management. The approach allows the women to share spaces, reduce living costs and form social connections. Access to comprehensive support services helps the women rebuild their lives and transition to long-term housing solutions.

Alison Burr, Company Manager, Community Bank Fleurieu said that women over 55 often face unique challenges such as age-related health issues, no or fixed incomes, limited super, and social isolation. Homelessness can lead to severe health problems, social exclusion, and difficulty in accessing necessary services.

“We are extremely proud for our Community Bank to be supporting this project. Our business is more than just a Bank; we are a vehicle for meaningful change,” Ms Burr said.

“We exist for the betterment of Fleurieu communities. Every transaction made through our Community Bank becomes a catalyst for positive social change.”

Apply for community investment funding with Community Bank Fleurieu.