2025 was a year of reflection and renewal for Hunter Community Housing (HCH). While sector funding opportunities remained limited, this provided us with a chance to focus on streamlining our business model and strengthening tenancy management and community engagement.
Alongside our expanding affordable housing portfolio, HCH continued to deliver diverse housing solutions, including supported independent living for young people transitioning from out-of-home care, and a market residential program.
We maintained strong engagement within the community housing sector, with proud representation on the organising committee for Hunter Homeless Connect Day. Our collaboration with Faith Housing Australia and the Community Housing Industry Association NSW enabled us to share valuable insights and resources with our tenants and staff.
In February, we conducted a tenant satisfaction survey, achieving a 62% response rate – well above the Housing Registrar’s target benchmark of 25%. Results were encouraging across key areas such as overall satisfaction, repairs and maintenance, property condition, and communication. This feedback will guide future service improvements.
In May, significant changes to NSW tenancy laws came into effect. The Residential Tenancies Amendment Act made “no grounds” evictions unlawful, simplified pet ownership for tenants, and improved rental payment rules – strengthening protections for tenants’ rights.
Finally, in October, we submitted our annual compliance report to the Community Housing Registrar. This process allowed us to further review and streamline policies and procedures, ensuring they remain relevant as our operations grow. These efforts position HCH for continued success and sustainability as we move into 2026.
Our work directly supports the mission of the Catholic Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle and reflects the Australian Catholic Bishops’ call to address homelessness as a moral and social priority. By providing secure, affordable housing and fostering inclusion, we are living out these values in practical ways that change lives.
Thank you to our staff, partners and tenants for your support throughout 2025.
We look forward to continuing in our mission together – building communities where everyone has a place to call home.