Common Ground is a Housing First response, based on the principle that people have a right to a home – without preconditions. It is a proven, cost-effective model that ends chronic homelessness through immediate access to permanent housing, plus on-site, integrated support services.

In recent years, increasing housing costs, a lack of social and affordable housing, and the stretching of mental health services have further increased the challenges experienced by women across Australia. These challenges are particularly acute in Sydney, which has long experienced the least affordable housing market in the nation.

Women’s Housing Company, in collaboration with a number of industry partners (Homelessness NSW, Mercy Foundation, Urbis, Mission Australia, Neami National, Women’s and Girl’s Emergency Centre and CHIA NSW), has produced a feasibility study that assesses the potential of a Common Ground to support women who have experienced chronic homelessness, domestic and family violence and other forms of trauma, and who are being failed by the current system.

Today we are launching this report and beginning our journey to making the first Women’s Common Ground a reality. Join us and learn more about the Common Ground model and the transformative impact it could have for women in Sydney.