What is Community Housing?

Community housing is safe, secure and affordable housing delivered by Community Housing Providers (CHPs) — not-for-profit organisations that reinvest every dollar back into homes, services and communities. Unlike private landlords, CHPs are focused on people, not profit.

Community housing offers secure, quality homes at affordable rents for people with very low, low and moderate incomes who may struggle to access suitable housing in the private rental market. Community Housing Providers are registered under government regulatory frameworks and are regularly assessed against service, governance and financial performance standards.

Community housing delivers more than a roof over someone’s head. It provides the foundation for:
• Stability
• Inclusion
• Health and wellbeing
• Connection and opportunity
• Stronger communities

By combining affordable housing with long-term support, community housing creates lasting social and economic value — helping people thrive while strengthening communities across Australia.

Types of Community Housing

Social Housing

For people on very low incomes who cannot access suitable accommodation in the private rental market. Social housing often supports people with specific needs – for example, individuals experiencing homelessness, escaping domestic and family violence (DFV), or living with disability.

Affordable Housing

Rented at below-market rates, affordable housing helps key and essential workers, as well as people on low to moderate incomes, to live closer to where they work and study.

Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA)

Purpose-built housing designed for people with disability and high support needs. SDA enables independence, accessibility, and tailored support services.

Transitional Housing

Short-term supported housing that helps people move from homelessness into longer-term, stable housing options.