A new community initiative is helping people across the Hunter region access affordable housing while fostering meaningful social connections.
Hunter Homeshare, delivered by Embrace People & Place, connects compassionate homeowners with individuals seeking safe, secure, and affordable living arrangements. The program promotes companionship, support, and shared values for all participants.
Hunter Homeshare was officially launched on Friday, 7th November at 437 Hunter Street, Newcastle, by the Honourable Jodie Harrison, with guest speaker Dr John Ward from the Hunter Ageing Alliance. The launch highlighted the program’s potential to address two pressing issues in the region: housing affordability and social isolation.
The program carefully matches participants through a structured process, including:
This process ensures that all participants enjoy safe, supportive, and compatible home-sharing arrangements.
“Hunter Homeshare is about more than just housing” said Nissa Phillips, Homeshare Coordinator at Embrace People & Place.
“It’s about creating homes and enriching lives by connecting people in purposeful shared living arrangements. We’re also fostering trust and meaningful relationships that help older generations age in place with dignity and companionship.”
While home sharing programs have been successfully implemented in other parts of Australia and internationally, Hunter Homeshare is the first of its kind in the Hunter region. Embrace People & Place is collaborating with the Hunter Ageing Alliance and the Homeshare Australia and New Zealand Alliance (HANZA) to pilot and deliver the program locally.
The model was developed with input from community partners, local residents, and potential home sharers to ensure it meets the unique needs of the Hunter community.
“Through this initiative, we’re not only addressing housing pressures but also building a stronger, more connected community,” said Nissa Phillips.
“It’s a simple idea that can make a profound difference.”
Hunter Homeshare is now welcoming enquiries from both homeowners and home seekers across:
Participants can enjoy affordable housing options, companionship, and the opportunity to contribute to a connected, supportive community.
To find out more about Hunter Homeshare or to register your interest as a homeowner or home seeker, visit the Hunter Homeshare page on the Embrace People & Place website.
