New housing model giving older women a home 'for the rest of my life'

A new housing model in Australia is providing older women with a permanent home for the rest of their lives. Known as a co-housing development, this innovative approach caters specifically to the fastest-growing group of homeless people in the country: older women.

Five women, including Ann Singh, 79, have paid $120,000 each and signed a 50-year lease, ensuring they will never be evicted. Each woman will live in a private, self-contained studio unit with a kitchen and courtyard. Additionally, shared facilities like a kitchen, living room, and central courtyard are available for communal use.

The Sharing With Friends charity, which runs the project, identified a gap in the housing market. Many single, older women have substantial savings but cannot afford to buy a property. This model bridges the gap between social housing and private home ownership, providing a secure and affordable solution for these women.

Robyn Duffy-Jones, 60, another resident, shared her experience with renting and being rejected by banks when trying to purchase a home. The fear of living without a roof over her head was a significant motivation for her to participate in this housing model.

The project, which took seven years to develop, received significant support from philanthropic donations, despite high construction costs and planning delays. It aims to replicate its model across Australia, but requires changes in local council policies and government support. Architect Eloise Atkinson designed the model, focusing on creating a sense of community with friendship at its core. The charity hopes to replicate this model nationwide, addressing the unique needs of older women in the housing market.