🌟 Head Start Homes’ Commitment to National Reconciliation Week 2024 🌟

In the spirit of National Reconciliation Week, we at Head Start Homes are not only reflecting on the significance of reconciliation but also taking concrete steps towards how we can support reconciliation for our First Nations clients and First Nations communities all year long.

Yesterday, we held a thought-provoking event facilitated by Georgie Jaques and Kate Fenton from our Home Ownership Success team which shed light on the ongoing efforts and what more needs to be done to support First Nations communities. We delved into discussions that went beyond just this week, focusing on our commitments for the entire year.

Some eye-opening statistics shared at the event highlighted the changing landscape of housing for First Nations households over the past two decades:

The proportion living in social housing fell from 32% in 2001 to 18% in 2021.
Those renting privately rose from 28% in 2001 to 35% in 2021. (ABS 2022b)

Our client data echoes these trends, revealing the harsh reality that the scarcity of social and affordable housing is forcing First Nations Peoples into the unstable private rental market. Consequently, our clients who are living in private rental can spend over 50% of their income on rent, a burden that underscores the critical need for sustainable housing solutions.

In light of our commitment to help bring about reconciliation, we highlighted commitments we are making which includes:

Hiring a First Nations Executive lead within our Home Ownership Success Team to ensure representation and informed decision-making.
Continued collaboration and learning from our First Nation Partner organisations and families to enrich our understanding and effectiveness in working alongside First Nations peoples and communities.
Regular meetings focused on improving outcomes for our First Nations clients, ensuring their voices are heard and actioned.

These commitments and insights drive us to work tirelessly towards a future where First Nations people have equal access to secure and affordable home ownership. Let’s continue to build on the momentum of National Reconciliation Week, not just for a week, but every day of the year, every year.

#NationalReconciliationWeek #HeadStartHomes #FirstNations #HousingEquality #CommunityEngagement