2024 Resident Survey Snapshot P3 Tenant Tails: Pet Competition Winners P4 Trish’s Creative Corner P7 Autumn 2025
Tenant Engagement Officer Amy (left) and Deputy Chair of our resident advisory committee Margaret (right) .
HChoicesWA
comfortable, and supportive home. Thank you for being part of our journey, and we hope you enjoy reading about the progress we are making together. I would also like to take this opportunity to share a good news story with you. A former Transitional Housing Management (THM) tenant, who had been homeless for five years, started his tenancy with us in 2020. With the support of our partners, Thorne Harbour, he has stabilised his physical and mental health, secured employment, and rebuilt his life. By the end of 2024, he reached an incredible milestone- purchasing his very own one-bedroom home and becoming a proud homeowner. This is a strong reminder as to why we do what we do - helping people find stability, security, and a place to call home. In WA, our Community Engagement Team is busy preparing for the Resident Art Showcase on 21 May, a much-loved event for residents, stakeholders and
staff. This year we’re also creating a collaborative artwork on the theme of home, which will be unveiled at the art show. You can find more information about how you can be involved in this edition of Home Stories . I am also thrilled to introduce our new Director of Housing Services, Cynara Miles. Originally from Perth, Cynara brings over two decades of experience in the housing and community
From Hannah Harvey Executive Group Director Customer Services I hope you all had a wonderful summer and found some time to relax and recharge. This edition of Homes Stories is packed with exciting updates, stories, and important news. We’ve included a special section highlighting some of our most anticipated housing projects underway across Australia, where we’re not only building more homes but also improving the quality of living for people and families in need. From new developments to community initiatives, we are committed to making a positive impact and ensuring everyone has access to an affordable,
housing sectors. She is deeply committed to
enhancing our services for you, our residents, through our national services model. Cynara is also passionate about addressing the needs of diverse and vulnerable communities, ensuring that we continue to improve and meet everyone’s unique requirements. We are incredibly fortunate to have Cynara join the Housing Choices team and she is looking forward to meeting you as and when opportunities arise. Please join me in giving her a warm welcome when you see her.
Acknowledgement of Country In the spirit of reconciliation Housing Choices WA acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Noongar boodja (land) where we are based. We acknowledge their connections to land, sea and community and pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
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2024 Resident Survey snapshot
Thank you to everyone who completed our 2024 annual resident survey! 34% of you in WA took the time to share your feedback, which will help shape the services we provide to you. While the survey is conducted nationally, we’re highlighting WA-specific results to make sure what you see aligns with your experiences locally. Our learnings from each state will allows us to focus on local improvements but also share best practices across the country as we move toward a national service model, ensuring a consistent and high-quality experience for our residents across the country. We’re now developing local and national action plans based on your insights and will share updates in the Winter edition of Home Stories .
Your satisfaction with our services
83 %
satisfied with condition of home 88 %
80 %
79 %
satisfied with repairs and maintenance service
satisfied with repairs and maintenance quality
satisfied with neighbourhood
satisfied with resident involvement 78 %
satisfied with communications 85 %
77 %
satisfied with how we take your views into account
1. Repairs and Maintenance. 2. Overall condition of home. 3. Communications with Housing Choices. 4. Listening to tenant views and acting on them. Areas of service most important to residents
1. Social and wellbeing activities. 2. Understanding more about maintenance and repairs. 3. Understanding more about rent and rent reviews. 4. Dealing with anti-social behaviour. Activities residents are most interested in
Survey prize draw winners
Congratulations to the winners of our survey prize draw! 10 residents from across WA, VIC, SA, and TAS were randomly selected from all national survey respondents to receive a $100 gift voucher. Our winners are Glen, Alice, Scout, Michael, Anne, Beverley, Gaylene, James, Jayleesa, and Kylie.
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Tenant Tails:
pet competition winners
Thank you to everyone who participated in our Tenant Tails competition by sharing stories and photos of their furry friends. This competition was all about celebrating the positive impact pets can have to our wellbeing. We visited each of our winners to get to know them and their beloved pets. Each winner received a prize pack filled with toys and practical supplies for their pets, along with a gift voucher for their owners.
Please enjoy the photos and stories of some of the pets in our tenant community.
Bistro
Shelley has three beloved companions who have been her ongoing lifeline, especially in her battle with cancer. Maddie , her 12-year-old dog, suffered brain trauma as a puppy, but is a constant companion to Shelley and always makes her laugh. Bistro , a 24-year-old bird, is full of personality, engaging in lively conversations with Shelley every day. “He’s apparently 10 years past his expiry date, but don’t tell him that!” Shelley joked. Then there’s Da Vinci , a budgie Shelley rescued near her home a few years ago. He is the quietest of the trio but has an endearing quirk − he rests his head on his perch while sleeping, something Shelley has never seen in a budgie before. “I would be lost without these three. They truly are the reason I get up every day,” Shelley says.
Daniel and his family rescued Fluffy when she was just a tiny kitten, found searching for food near a McDonald’s where Daniel’s brother worked. Since then, Fluffy has become an irreplaceable part of their family, bringing endless entertainment. “With her gentle headbutts, soft purring, and playful antics, she never fails to brighten our days. Her presence has truly been a blessing, and we feel incredibly lucky to have her as part of our family,” shared Daniel and Nindia.
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Join our collaborative resident art project
Skyla is a two-year-old Silky Terrier with a feisty personality, just like her owner, Carole . Pictured above in her favourite pink woollen jumper, knitted by Carole, Skyla is a small but lively companion. Living in a unit, Skyla keeps herself entertained by running around and doesn’t require much exercise. Neighbours love her clever, playful nature, and she brings Carole lots of joy. Skyla is a big part of Carole’s life, joining her on camping trips in the campervan. Carole’s previous dog, Nyari, was also a Silky Terrier and was a wonderful companion for 14 years.
What does “home” mean to you? We’re inviting all tenants to express their personal
meaning of home through art. We’ll provide a small canvas for you to paint, draw, or decorate however you like. Your individual pieces will be combined to create a larger collaborative artwork, celebrating the many definitions of home in our community. How to get involved: 1. Contact us to receive your canvas. 2. Return your finished canvas by 14 May 2025 . 3. The artwork will be revealed at our Resident Art Showcase on 21 May 2025 .
Wendy’s dog, Willow , is a lively and affectionate three-year-old border collie who loves nothing more than running along the beach and curling up on her mum’s bed. Willow’s playful nature and expressive barks bring constant joy to her owners. Wendy, who has always had pets, believes they play a big role in improving mental health.
Contact us on 0437 887 675 or via info-wa@hcau.org.au.
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Trish with her handmade cards at our art show.
Do you enjoy art or have your own creations to share? Join us for our Resident Art Showcase on Wednesday, 21 May 2025 at the Gary Holland Community Centre in Rockingham. All Housing Choices WA tenants are invited to come along and enjoy the art, meet the talented artists, and mingle over food and drinks. Residents displaying their artwork will have the chance to win prizes and the option to sell their pieces on the day. Join us for the 2025 Resident Art Showcase
For more information or to register your interest please contact Amy and Alex on 0437 887 675 or via info-wa@hcau.org.au.
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Trish’s Creative Corner
Above: Trish (left) and participants in craft group.
Trish, a long-time Housing Choices tenant and Chair of our Tenant Advisory Committee, is bringing people in her community together through craft. With support from our Small Sparks Fund, Trish started weekly craft sessions, offering tenants a welcoming space to connect, unwind, and get creative. The Small Sparks Fund provides residents with funding and support to bring social events to life in their communities. Trish used this opportunity to create a welcoming space for crafters of all levels. Whether it’s diamond art, card-making, crocheting, or painting, participants can work on the craft projects provided or bring their own projects.
These session are not just about crafting - they're about wellbeing. Trish has been running a small survey with participants, asking them to rate their mood when they arrive and when they leave. The results speak for themselves: on a scale from 1 to 10, ranging from sad to happy feelings, many people begin at a '3' and leave at a '7,' feeling happier, lighter, and more at ease. The combination of mindfulness activities, creative focus, and warm social interactions has had a positive impact on the mental health of those who attend. Trish is a true community champion, always looking for ways to support her neighbours and broader community. As a talented crafter herself, she has showcased her beautiful handmade cards and paintings at our local art show.
If you’re inspired by Trish and want to start something similar in your community, you can apply for funding through the Small Sparks Fund. For more information contact Alex on 0437 887 675 or email info-wa@hcau.org.au.
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Your Residual Current Device (RCD) is a key safety feature in your home. An RCD is a safety switch that quickly shuts off power if it detects an electrical fault, helping to prevent electric shocks and fires. RCDs are usually located in the main switchboard, often found in hallways, laundries, or outside meter boxes. Why you should keep your switchboards clear • Electricians need access for maintenance and repairs. • Tenancy Officers check the switchboard at inspections to ensure RCDs are working properly. • Emergency services may need to quickly turn off power in an emergency. How to keep your switchboards accessible • Make sure your switchboard is not blocked by furniture or large appliances. • Avoid hanging pictures, shelves or decorations over your switchboard. Switchboards save lives – keep them clear
Resident advisory committee kicks off for 2025 In February we held our first resident advisory committee meeting for the year, bringing together committee members and staff to discuss key tenant issues and provide valuable feedback on our services. It was a great session, with our new Deputy Chair Margaret stepping up to run her first meeting. We were also joined by Tanya our Director of Placemaking and Partnerships, Tim our Team Leader of Supportive Services, and Amy our Tenant Engagement Officer. Alongside the meeting, we held our annual training session to refresh members on the committee’s purpose and roles, celebrate past achievements, and look ahead at what’s next.
If you’re unsure about the location of your switchboard or whether it is accessible, please contact our maintenance team on 1800 203 383.
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More homes, better homes across the country!
New and affordable homes at Riverwalk Estate, Werribee Victoria
Tasmania Construction at Queens Walk is well underway
Western Australia 30 new homes coming to Busselton
Residents have now moved into our 18 new homes at Riverwalk Estate in Werribee, delivered in partnership with Homes Victoria and EveryOne, a division of Metricon Homes. Eight of the houses were purchased by our valued partner Aboriginal Housing Victoria. We hope our new residents enjoy their beautiful homes and look forward to building a vibrant and welcoming community here - a part of the expansive Riverwalk Estate!
Great things are happening at our Queens Walk community in New Town, Hobart! Construction is proceeding smoothly for two new buildings, alongside the iconic 1950s towers that were renovated and expanded by Housing Choices over the last decade. This upcoming development will deliver 65 new architecturally designed social and affordable apartments for people in need. Located in the scenic surrounds of Cornelian Bay, the project will feature secure bike parking, improved landscape lighting, and inviting recreational spaces — all close to public transport and a range of outdoor facilities. Delivered in partnership with Homes Tasmania, this new community will offer comfort, connection, and convenience in a beautiful, well-connected location. Thank you to our wonderful Queens Walk residents, who have been so patient and cooperative during construction.
Located 220kms south of Perth, Busselton is a beautiful coastal town - home to the longest wooden jetty in the southern hemisphere, built in 1851! We’re excited to announce Housing Choices will build 30 new social and affordable homes here by the end of 2026, in partnership with the State Government and Development WA. Located opposite Churchill Park, a short walk from Busselton’s downtown hub of Queen Street, our residents will have easy access to public transport, shops, services, and amenities. The architect- designed development features 22 one-bedroom and 8 two-bedroom apartments, all with environmentally sustainable features. We can’t wait to kick off this exciting project.
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Cost of living support for residents
We know the rising cost of living is putting pressure on many households - from power bills to groceries, everything’s gone up. That’s why we want to make sure you know what help is out there.
How to find a financial counsellor Here are some trusted financial counsellors we’ve worked with who can provide free support in your area: Bunbury – Anglicare WA 13 Stirling Street Bunbury 08 9720 9200 Mandurah – Money Mentors 61B Pinjarra Road Mandurah 08 9581 1281 Rockingham – Anglicare WA 14 Council Avenue Rockingham 08 9528 0702 Kwinana – Money Mentors Level 1, 2 Robbos Way, Kwinana 08 9581 1281 Fremantle – Uniting WA 10-12 Market Street, Fremantle 08 9220 1255 Cockburn – City of Cockburn Council Level 1, Suit 14, 11 Wentworth Parade, Success 08 9411 3444 Armadale – Anglicare WA Armadale Lotteries House, Suite 5/122 Forrest Road, Armadale 08 9497 4917 Gosnells – Gosnells Community Legal Centre Gosnells Lotteries House, 2232 Albany Highway, Gosnells 08 9398 1455 Cannington – Communicare 28 Cecil Avenue, Cannington 08 9251 5777
Have you called the Emergency Relief & Food Access Service?
This free phone service connects you to local financial counsellors and emergency relief support including referrals to the Foodbank. To get a referral for the Foodbank, simply call the Emergency Relief and Food Access Service at 1800 979 777 (available Mon-Fri, 9am-5pm).
Free Financial Counselling
Financial counsellors are trained professionals who offer free, confidential and non-judgemental advice to help with: • Accessing food and bill relief services. • Finding options to increase income or reduce expenses. • Advocating with creditors to negotiate payment plans or reduce debt. • Providing information on consumer rights and responsibilities. • Helping you access government assistance programs.
Are you eligible for concessions? Concessions WA is an online resource where you can find information about over 100 rebates, concessions, and subsidy schemes you might be eligible for. Visit concessions. communities.wa.gov.au for more details.
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Beating blocked toilets and drains
Blocked drains are a common cause of tenant debt, as residents may not always be aware of what shouldn’t be flushed or washed down kitchen, bathroom, and toilet drains. While Housing Choices is responsible for repairing burst pipes or naturally occurring blockages, residents may be charged if the blockage is caused by resident’s actions.
Toilet blockages Toilet paper is the only thing that you should flush down the toilet. Don't flush the following as they can cause blockages:
Kitchen drain blockages Many food items can cause blockages by being washed down the sink. Make sure these go in the bin instead:
Shower/bathroom sink blockages Some everyday things we wash down bathroom drains can cause blockages. Keep these out of your drains:
Sanitary/hygiene products and nappies. Baby, make up or disinfectant wipes – even those that say flushable!
Grease, oil and cooking fat that solidifies in pipes. Starchy food scraps like rice, pasta and flour that expand and stick together. Coffee grounds and tea leaves which don’t break down.
Human and pet hair - which mats together causing blockage. Body scrubs and exfoliants like sugar and coffee scrubs. Dental floss - which can tangle and create a net that traps other materials.
Tissues or paper towel.
TIP: Use a drain cover to catch food debris and regularly clean your kitchen drains to dislodge any build up that may occur. Pour 1 cup of bicarbonate soda, 1 cup of warm water and 1 cup vinegar in and around the drain and leave for 20 minutes then pour warm water down and around the drain.
A slow or weak toilet flush often means that a clog is forming in your toilet drain. Use a plunger to try move small blockages before they become a more serious issue. TIP:
TIP:
Drain covers can help prevent hair going down shower drains. If you notice water pooling or draining slowly, a drain snake from bunnings can help remove hair clogs and restore proper flow.
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Home Stories Autumn puzzle Win a $50 Bunnings voucher!
Find all the words in the word search except for one, which is not actually in the grid. Words may be forward, backward, up, down or diagonal.
Find these Aussie Classics in the grid!
M A D M A X E
E X H Y U W
I
Z R
Y C M E
T B Q P
L O
L A U M O X Z N C M N M B K V R B R T W Z C L U U Y T L U A T V B M F G D K J L O P T Q L A M I N G T O N V C I P L A T Y P U S P L A B D W I G G L E S O R T D X N I V B U D A K A K M T W O P O C R O C O D I L E Q B B A Q D E D A L J
Lamington Uluru Crocodile Dundee Platypus ACDC Wiggles Mad Max
Pavlova Kakadu Bondi Wombat Mate Milo Vegemite
Tell us the remaining word for the word search by emailing info-wa@hcau.org.au , messaging us through our Facebook page or posting it to us at Home Stories Autumn Puzzle, Housing Choices Western Australia, PO Box 105, Burswood WA 6100. Competition closes Friday June 13 2025. The winner of a $50 Bunnings voucher will be drawn from all the correct entries after this date. Only one entry per household. Good luck! Congratulations to Francis from East Victoria Park , last edition’s puzzle prize winner.
Useful contacts National Debt Helpline: 1800 007 007 WA Connect: waconnect.org.au/ Carers Gateway: 1800 422 737
Lifeline: 13 11 14 Mental Health Emergency Response Line: 1300 555 788 (Perth region) 1800 676 822 (Peel region) Rurallink: 1800 552 002 (rural/regional WA)
Peel Office 4 Stevenson Street PO Box 1200 Mandurah WA 6210 P (08) 9534 0400
Perth Metro Office Level 7, 25 Rowe Avenue Rivervale WA 6103 PO Box 105 Burswood WA 6100 P (08) 9430 0900
South West Office 1 st Floor, 25 Victoria Street PO Box 1539
Bunbury WA 6230 P (08) 9722 7200
Maintenance Hotline 1800 203 383
info-wa@hcau.org.au housingchoices.org.au
Disclaimer: To the best of Housing Choices Australia’s knowledge (Housing Choices), this information is valid at the time of publication. Housing Choices makes no warranty or representation in relation to the content or accuracy of the material in this publication. Housing Choices expressly disclaims any and all liability (including liability for negligence) in respect of use of information provided. Housing Choices recommends you seek independent professional advice prior to making any decision involving matters outlined in this publication.
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