Improving services for independent living

About a third of all households in social housing have a family member with a disability.

If you have a disability, or if you are losing mobility as you get older, the home you live in and how accessible it is can have a big impact on your life. It can mean the difference between living an independent life and requiring regular care or assistance.

Modifications to social housing:
The Department of Housing can help social housing tenants to modify their rental properties so they meet their specific needs.

The department undertakes modifications to social housing properties to remove physical barriers to health, safety and independence. Modifications may include security screens, grab rails, ramps, lever taps and paths to clotheslines.

The department also assists those in the private housing market by providing specialist services such as:

The Over 100 ways to improve access at home booklet provides a range of ideas to help make your home easier to move around in and is available free of charge. To access a copy visit the Home Access page.

• Home Access: Financial assistance and information that can make it easier for eligible people who rent or own private accommodation to enter, get around or use some of their home's features.
• Home and Community Care: Eligible older, frail people and people with a disability can access information, assessment, project management and financial assistance for home modifications to enable them to remain in their own home in the community.
• Home Assist Secure: Free information and referrals about home maintenance, falls prevention, repairs, modifications and home security to help people aged over 60 years, or people of any age with a disability, to remain living safely in their own home. Subsidised assistance for minor home maintenance, repairs and modifications that relate to health, safety and security is also available for eligible clients.

The Department of Housing has shown its commitment to promoting the independence of older people and people with a disability by releasing its Disability Service Plan 2007-2010. The plan is also available by calling 3235 9597. If you use a telephone typewriter or a computer with a modem, call the National Relay Service on 13 36 77 and ask for 3235 9597.