Staying safe this bushfire season We have already seen many bushfires across the country this Summer so it’s important to take a few simple steps to keep your home and household safe during bushfire season. Prepare your home and garden Clear away dry leaves, branches and rubbish from balconies, courtyards and garden areas. Regularly mow lawns and trim back dry or overgrown plants where you can, especially near doors, windows and air-conditioning units. If using a BBQ this summer, keep it away from flammable materials, never leave it unattended, and make sure to turn it off after use. Be ready for emergencies Stay informed by downloading the VicEmergency app , visiting emergency.vic.gov.au or calling the VicEmergency Hotline at 1800 226 226. Have a bushfire plan, especially if you live in a bushfire-prone area so you know what to pack, when to leave and where to go. For advice and examples of bushfire safety plans, visit your state emergency services website or app listed above.
Above: Participants and staff at our second co-design session.
Residents shape new disability-inclusive resources Housing Choices Australia been awarded grant from the NDIS Quality and Safeguards Commission to develop new disability-inclusive resources for residents and training for our staff. A central part of this project is co-design with people with disability, guided by the principle “nothing about us, without us”. Throughout 2025 residents took part in focus groups facilitated by VALID, the Victorian advocacy organisation for adults with intellectual disability. The purpose of these focus groups is to consult with people with lived experience, including people who are living in our SDA homes, to share their views and advice to shape the project. Housing Choices Interim CEO, Michael Lennon attended the most recent focus group to thank the participants for their contribution to this important project. The insights from these focus groups will directly inform the development of accessible videos and resources for residents with disability, as well as new training modules for Housing Choices staff.
Have you thought about contents insurance?
Contents insurance is optional, but it can help protect your personal belongings if they’re damaged or lost due to accidents or emergencies, such as a fire. Having cover in place can provide peace of mind. If you’re considering contents insurance, take time to find a provider and level of cover that suits your needs and budget.
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