Innovative Solutions for Affordable and Secure Housing

Innovative Solutions for Affordable and Secure Housing 

Repurposing Space, Restoring Dignity 

In Sydney, a vacant three-bedroom home has been transformed into a safe, welcoming space for Aboriginal women and their children escaping violence. Used as transitional housing, this home offered families a fresh start just in time for Christmas. This project, in partnership with the Aboriginal Women and Children’s Crisis Service (AWCCS) and Coronation Property, demonstrates how purpose led partnerships can tackle Australia’s housing challenges. 

“The tenant is super excited and grateful to have her own place with her son as she has been homeless for the past 3.5 years. Amazing work team.” 
-Mel, Family Support Worker, AWCCS 

Skilled Women Leading Change 

The refurbishment was led by the Habitat Women Social Enterprise, whose graduates brought not only technical skills, but care and lived experience. They completed repairs, mentored volunteers, and returned after hours to ensure the home was ready in time. Their efforts show how powerful housing solutions can be, when people are empowered to lead them. 

“We’re not just fixing homes; we’re creating spaces where healing can begin.” 

Powered by Collaboration 

This project was made possible through our partners: 

• Habitat Women: Skilled labour and mentorship. 

• Brush With Kindness volunteers: Painting, finishing, and volunteer support.

• Corporate partners like Hilti, James Hardie, and Mirvac: through materials and time.

• AWCCS: Holistic tenant support and services. 

Together, they turned a vacant property into a home that restores dignity, safety, and hope. 

A Model for Replication 

Habitat’s Meanwhile Use Housing Program offers a blueprint for addressing housing insecurity efficiently and sustainably: 

• Cost-effective and fast to deploy 

• Culturally responsive and trauma-informed 

• Scalable through partnerships and shared ownership 

• Empowering for women through employment and leadership 

By documenting learnings and expanding reach, Habitat is demonstrating that even small-scale, targeted interventions can create lasting impact in the lives of vulnerable women and children. 

Your support can help turn vacant spaces into vibrant homes, empower women to lead change, and provide safe, secure housing for those who need it most. 

Learn more at habitat.org.au.