SGCH has officially opened its latest social housing development in Canterbury, including units provided as part of the NSW Government’s Together Home program for those experiencing chronic homelessness. 

The 10-apartment complex features ten social housing units, which includes three allocations to Together Home participants (a mix of one-, two- and three-bedroom), 12 parking spaces and a landscaped communal area that encourages community building.  

The partnership between SGCH and Homes NSW continues to grow, with SGCH now providing 90 homes for people who had previously been street sleeping or had a history of street sleeping as part of the Together Home program. 

“We will continue to partner with all levels of government to put keys in doors for those in need,” said Joe Achmar, Acting Group CEO of SGCH.  

“Our role in the Together Home program is not limited to supplying the bricks and mortar of housing, we also work closely with people once they move in to help them foster connections with their community. A range of support services are provided to help ensure their personal wellbeing is addressed and improved,” said Mr Achmar.  

SGCH purchased the apartment block in Canterbury in late 2023 and carried out extensive refurbishment works.  

In the Canterbury local government area there has been a 10 per cent increase in those seeking assistance from homelessness services over the past two years* and a waitlist of between five and 10 years for social housing. 

“The NSW Government is determined to do everything we can to end homelessness,” NSW Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said. 

“This block of units shows what can be achieved with existing housing stock and we appreciate the crucial role played by SGCH to deliver more homes not only for those seeking affordable housing but most critically the targeted support for those who have been sleeping rough.” 

All 10 units have now been allocated to Together Home participants and general social housing applicants. The block delivers vital safe, secure and affordable housing in response to the crisis enveloping our state. 

 
*Homelessness NSW Report (February 2024)