Transitioning back into ‘normal’ life can be extremely challenging for Veterans – even with Government or welfare agency support. The structure and routine that existed in their life before must be replaced and rebuilt around new parameters. The sense of belonging and unity that was a huge part of their lives during service changes, and the new version of their future can be difficult to visualise. In research conducted in 2019, it was found that almost 6000 Veterans who had recently left service became homeless (across a 12 month period).

Housing is a basic human need

Having a safe and suitable place to live is an essential factor in a healthy transition to a life after service. Housing is a basic human need and a key component that enables Veterans to forge a new path forward in their lives. A viable home environment supports someone’s capacity to enter the workforce and enjoy sustained employment. Housing solutions promote social inclusion, help strengthen a sense of social wellbeing and contribute to improved physical and mental health outcomes.

Taking the initiative with community housing

Carry On has a long history of providing subsidised housing, crisis accommodation, and support to those who are homeless or in danger of becoming homeless – and has gained invaluable experience in this field as a result. That experience has now been channelled into Veteran Housing Australia (VHA), an organisation with a vision to end Veteran homelessness.

Established by Carry On in July 2022, VHA provides affordable housing options for the Veteran Community, driven by its mission to assist Veterans and their families who are experiencing housing stress to access secure housing. This mission evolves from a belief that secure and safe housing provides a stable base to thrive in and from, allowing the successful adjustment into civilian life.

Australia’s first Community Housing Provider for Veterans

Kicking off on July 1st 2022, VHA is Australia’s first Community Housing Provider (CHP) to specifically service Veterans. VHA will provide secure, affordable, long-term rental housing for Veterans and their families who are experiencing homelessness and/or financial hardship. They will also provide temporary emergency housing for Veterans and their families who are vulnerable to experiencing homelessness

VHA currently owns and maintains 101 properties across Victoria in regional hubs including Ballarat, Bendigo, Geelong, Mildura, Dandenong, and Rosebud.

VHA is yet another example of Bill Hawkins’s legacy when Carry On was established – to provide support for those who were doing it tough through providing housing, advocacy, education, relief, and financial support.