
Many people rely on a government pension or unemployment benefits as the primary source of income. The difference between the pension being adequate or inadequate depends mainly on the individual’s housing costs. Many people have limited housing options available, yet the type and standard of housing can have significant positive effects on independence, health and feelings of well-being and security.
However in a majority of regions within Australia, affordable living units are simply not readily available.
In addition, Australia’s population is becoming older, and this aging is projected to continue. Based on current trends, the proportion of the population over 65 years of age is set to double in the next 50 years. There are three reasons for this:
To help combat the housing shortage Y-Care has constructed Melville Place a 52 unit complex in Nerang Queensland.
These units are a combination of one bedroom and studio units and are available at a low rental cost to persons registered with Queensland Housing. The facility includes a community room with pool and table tennis tables, BBQ area, coin laundry and well maintained lawns and gardens.
Y-Care is constructing a further facility adjacent to Melville Place due for tenancy in March / April 2012. This facility consists of one bedroom units. , this will increase Y-Care’s accommodation to over 100 units.
One of the distinct advantages Y-Care (South-East Queensland) Inc. can provide to this model is the range of other YMCA services and programs that can be added in order to further reduce the distress and suffering seen as a result of poverty and misfortune.
Assistance that will be made available include:
The YMCA services will help instill a true community feel and environment within the villages.