In a world of rising living costs, housing stress, and growing social isolation, Hunter Homeshare asks a simple but powerful question: what if we shared the load? This innovative program offers a compassionate, practical response to two overlapping challenges—loneliness among older people and housing insecurity and rising rates of homelessness in the Hunter.
Hunter Homeshare matches people looking for secure, affordable housing with older homeowners who have a spare room and are seeking companionship. We work relationally and gently, moving at the speed of trust—one conversation, one cuppa, and one connection at a time.
By intentionally pairing people who can support each other, the program strengthens social bonds, eases housing pressures, and enhances quality of life. We always work with each participant’s circle of support—family, neighbours, and professional services—to ensure every arrangement is safe, suitable, and collaborative.
Embrace People & Place is partnering with the Hunter Ageing Alliance and the Homeshare Australia and New Zealand Alliance (HANZA) to pilot and deliver this program.
Older people living alone often face profound social isolation, which carries serious health risks. As one 84-year-old homeowner shared:
“I can go three weeks without talking to anyone except in the shops… I feel like I am waiting to die. It has got to get better than this.”
Another person said:
“I’m living alone in a four-bedroom house. The dog doesn’t talk back. It would be nice to have some company. Someone kind, who could help with the cooking.”
Through Homeshare, older homeowners gain not only practical support but also companionship, safety, and a renewed sense of purpose—turning empty rooms into spaces full of life and connection.
Single women aged 55 and over are the fastest-growing group of Australians experiencing homelessness, according to 2021 Census data. Many are quietly couch surfing, living in overcrowded homes, or facing repeated rental rejections.
Feedback from homeseekers highlights the urgent need:
While single women 55+ are our priority, Hunter Homeshare also supports essential workers, students, and others experiencing housing insecurity who are open to shared living.
Hunter Homeshare encourages the community to think like an ecosystem—where everyone has something to offer, and everyone benefits from the strength of the whole. The skills that make a good neighbour—listening, supporting, being present—become social capital, “traded” for safety, accommodation, and companionship.
It’s more than shared space; it’s shared life. Companionship, a cup of tea, a friendly face, and mutual support transform houses into homes and isolation into community.
In an age of rising costs and increasing disconnection, Hunter Homeshare reminds us: when we live like a village, everyone belongs. If you have a spare room or are seeking housing, you can be part of this transformative program.
