APPLICATION AND ELIGIBILITY

POLICY STATEMENT

I. Purpose

The purpose of this policy is to outline eligibility and application requirements for social housing managed by SCH.

II. Definitions

Social housing is secure, affordable housing for people on low to moderate incomes needing to access rental properties under the agreement with Department of Communities and Justice

III. Coverage

This policy applies to all social housing managed bys SCH including transitional accommodation.

IV. Principles

SCH eligibility criteria are governed by our funding agreements, which set guidelines and standards for access to properties under each funding program. To be eligible for social housing, applicants must:

Establish their identity,

Be resident in New South Wales (NSW),

Be a citizen or have permanent residency in Australia,

Have a household income within the income eligibility limit,

Not own any assets or property which could reasonably be expected to resolve their housing need,

Be able to sustain a successful tenancy, without support or with appropriate support in place,

If applicable, make repayments of any former debts to a social housing provider, and

In general, be at least 18 years of age.

A person may be ineligible for social housing if they have a history of committing -serious offences and it is likely that their presence in social housing will cause antisocial behaviour, or present an unacceptable risk of harm to themselves, other social housing occupants or neighbours.

Applicants will be unable to apply for housing if they have an existing debt with a social housing provider, until they have entered and complied with an agreed repayment plan for a minimum period of 6 months. This applies for a period of 12 years from the date of an order or judgement relating to the debt.

SCH subscribe to a common waiting list of all eligible applicants from which we prioritise applicants. Applications for housing are now to be submitted through the Housing Contact Centre by calling 1800 422 322 or you can apply online at http://www.housingpathways.nsw.gov.au/how-to-apply .

Applicants can express a preference for a particular location or special property features, but requests will only be met if suitable housing is available.

SCH can assist applicants to complete their applications or arrange interpreters or other support if necessary.

SCH has procedures in place to protect the confidentiality and privacy of applicants.

V. Responsibilities

The Access and Demand Manager is responsible for managing the SCH priority waiting list.