Making housing everyone’s right
Australian aged care provider, BaptistCare, has been recognised for its commitment to housing for older Australians and crisis accommodation for women and children, with the organisation receiving its certification as a community housing provider under the new National Regulatory System for Community Housing.
Providing housing to the elderly extends beyond the boundaries of the traditional aged care model, says BaptistCare's, Mike Furner.
This is an important acknowledgment for BaptistCare, who leveraging on its aged care expertise, has significantly grown their service delivery model in providing social and affordable housing options to the elderly over the past five years.
“The need for secure and affordable housing across Australia is great. Our strategy to provide housing and care services to the elderly extends beyond the boundaries of the traditional aged care model to the housing market,” says Mike Furner, general manager housing and retirement living.
“BaptistCare’s purpose is to transform lives, and to do this we want to be leaders in creating socially cohesive communities,” Mr Furner says.
“We want to make a significant contribution to housing in NSW, and our goal of providing up to 500 additional properties by 2019 is backed by our overall strategic plan to provide integrated housing and support solutions that sustains tenancies and communities into the future,” he says.
“Our community housing insists on quality designed housing aimed at maximising and encouraging environmental sustainability, while allowing flexibility and adaptability to meet a tenant’s changing needs.”
BaptistCare has a portfolio of housing locations in Lismore, Goulburn, the Blue Mountains, Macquarie Park and Five Dock with 220 properties.
These locations offer social housing, for eligible older persons on very low incomes who are currently on the NSW Housing waiting list, or affordable housing, for people not eligible for social housing but on a low to moderate income.
Women and children escaping domestic violence and in need of accommodation is another area of focus for BaptistCare, with the organisation providing crisis housing and medium term accommodation for women and their children, alongside support services to assist them in rebuilding their lives.
“We understand the importance of providing a roof over someone’s head, whether they are older Australians, or women and children who are truly fighting for their lives. A sense of security, safety and comfort are all intrinsically tied up in in having a place to call home. We’re trusted by our clients to provide them with housing, but also with care and hope for a better future,” he said.
Community housing providers are registered as one of four tiers, reflecting the size, complexity and risks of their business. As a Class 2 Community Housing provider, BaptistCare is recognised as a committed partner with a plan for growth.
