HOW employs a team of 14 staff across offices in Deniliquin and Albury to manage its portfolio, which currently stands at just over 400 properties.
Chief executive officer Cliff Jones said there are almost 300,000 people living in community housing in NSW.
‘‘Community housing is rental housing owned or managed by non-profit community based organisations,’’ he said.
‘‘It provides a range of housing options for those whose needs are less able to be met by the private sector.
‘‘What makes community housing providers different from public housing providers is a focus on tenant and community engagement.’’
Homes Out West holds annual tenant events, including a recent tenant Christmas party at the Waring Gardens. Tenants also have an opportunity to shape the service they receive by participating in satisfaction surveys.
Mr Jones said community housing benefits not only the individual, but families and communities as well.
‘‘We believe that providing safe, sustainable and secure housing has a significantly positive impact on a person’s life,’’ he said.
‘‘Community housing acts as a valuable safety net for vulnerable people and can provide opportunities and pathways towards independence.
‘‘People in secure housing are more likely to have better mental health and pursue work, education and training opportunities.’’
Social housing has been part of Australian society since it was established after the second World War, but despite its importance, resources are scarce.
‘‘It’s an unfortunate reality that currently, the number of applicants exceeds the number of available dwellings,” Mr Jones said.
‘‘The social housing sector is pushing our message to the NSW Government that more needs to be done to meet the housing crisis.’’
Mr Jones said while exact figures for local waitlists can’t be provided, it is important those looking for social housing get registered on the NSW Housing Register.
The statewide register allows HOW staff to see all eligible applicants who are looking for housing in the service area.
Applicants can now apply for housing online, with Homes Out West recently revamping a client room in its Deniliquin office.
The room includes free internet access, phone and printer. Client Service Officers are also available to help guide an applicant through the process.
‘‘Providing affordable, safe and sustainable housing options is at the heart of what we do as a community housing provider,’’ Mr Jones said.
Homes Out West manages properties in Deniliquin, Albury, Moama, Finley, Tocumwal, Berrigan, Jerilderie, Moulamein, Balranald, Dareton and Wentworth.
Those interested in exploring their housing options are encouraged to have a discussion with the Homes Out West team.
Homes Out West is located at 139 End St, Deniliquin and is open from 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday. You can make an appointment to speak with a client services officer by calling 58814182.