Community housing is affordable housing for people on low to moderate incomes with a housing need. This type of housing is owned by, or under the legal control of, a community housing organisation.
These organisations are generally, but not always, not-for-profit. Local governments also provide community housing.
Community housing organisations are skilled in matching people to properties by assigning housing according to individual requirements and paying attention to location, design and support needs. Types of accommodation provided by these organisations include crisis, transitional and long-term housing.
The Department of Housing aims to work in partnership with the community housing sector to achieve its vision of opening more doors for West Australians. Community housing organisations may be assisted by the Department of Housing through a combination of funding initiatives and policies that aim to support their viability.
Who provides community housing?
How can I apply for Community Housing?
If you want to apply for community housing with the Department of Housing you must complete an
Application for Rental Housing form and tick the box on the cover page that asks do you wish to be considered for a community housing property.
The application form should then be lodged with the Regional Office in your local area.
Applicants who would like assistance in completing the application form should contact their local
Department of Housing office. If you are already waiting for public housing and didn't tick the box, contact the Department of Housing and they will do it for you.
If you want to apply for community housing directly with Community Housing Providers please see “Who providers community housing?” above.
Applying for Community Housing: Joint Wait List Amalgamation
We are reviewing the list of applicants waiting for social housing in Western Australia.
The waiting lists of the three largest community housing organisations are being absorbed into our Joint Wait List.
This will avoid duplication and provide applicants with greater access to both public and community housing.
The community housing organisations involved are:
- Access Housing Associated Limited
- Foundation Housing Limited
- Great Southern Community Housing Association
If you are on the waiting lists with these community housing organisations, or are interested in learning more about the Joint Wait List Amalgamation, you will find the things you need to know here.