Supporting Vulnerable Communities

At Catholic Healthcare, we’re committed to supporting individuals facing complex challenges to maintain their independence, safety and dignity. Through tailored programs and compassionate support, we work collaboratively with clients and other services to achieve meaningful outcomes across housing, aged care, and community inclusion.

Assistance with Care and Housing (ACH)

Our Hoarding and Squalor program supports frail or prematurely aged people (50 years and over, or 45 years and over for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples) who:

  • Are on a low income

  • Are homeless or at risk of homelessness due to housing stress or lack of secure accommodation

  • Are living with hoarding behaviour or in a squalid environment and unable to access the aged care they need

Scope of services

Our ACH team works closely with individuals to create personalised support plans. Assessments are done using:

  • Environmental Cleanliness and Clutter Scale

  • Clutter Image Rating Scale

  • Wheel of Life – a tool for capturing client satisfaction and informing their goals

Services may include:

  • Consent-based removal of items

  • Brokerage support for service delivery

  • Referrals to relevant external services

The model centres around building trust and working at the client's pace, always upholding dignity and respect.

Transitional accommodation and Bridge Housing partnership

Catholic Healthcare provides transitional accommodation for older people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. This includes:

  • Safe, female-only housing

  • Male transitional housing delivered in partnership with Bridge Housing

Together, these programs offer up to 18 months of short-term accommodation with wraparound support. Clients receive coordinated care planning and help to transition into longer-term housing, while also building confidence and community engagement.

Eligibility includes:

  • Meeting the Assistance with Care and Housing criteria

  • Being eligible for priority social housing

  • Experiencing housing insecurity or homelessness

Support is also extended to co-habiting dependants, recognising that household stability is critical to successful outcomes.

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Programs and partnerships making a difference

Catholic Healthcare collaborates with housing providers, local councils, and health organisations to reduce housing insecurity and improve wellbeing.

Care finders

Our Care Finders team provides assertive outreach and one-to-one guidance to help older people navigate aged care services, complete assessments, and connect with community supports to reduce isolation.

  • Understand and navigate aged care services
  • Complete applications and assessments
  • Stay connected with community supports
Pastoral Care

Buried in Treasure (BIT)

Soon to be delivered 

Buried in Treasures is a structured 15-week group program offering practical strategies, peer support and professional guidance to help people address hoarding behaviours and improve their living environment.

Learn More

Housing relocation

We support older people in moving from unsafe or unsuitable homes into secure, accessible accommodation, coordinating with property managers, transport services and local councils to ensure a smooth transition.

Community Corner

An integrated community model where older tenants can connect, share and thrive. Community Corner is part of our Integrated Community Living model – creating spaces where clients feel connected and supported. Held monthly at Matavai Towers, these afternoon teas offer food, conversation, guest speakers, and celebrations.

Support for tenancy rights

In partnership with DCJ, we deliver resources and advice on tenancy rights, offer fact sheets on safety and maintenance, and guide clients in engaging effectively with housing providers.

  • Fact sheets on mould, animals, cleanliness and safety
  • Guidance on engaging with housing providers
  • Support to maintain tenancy and safe living conditions

Psychosocial support

Our psychosocial approach addresses emotional, social and practical needs by walking alongside clients, helping them set personal goals, and offering ongoing encouragement as they rebuild independence.

Real stories, real impact

 

“

It’s about supporting someone with compassion and respect — not just addressing the clutter, but truly listening to what’s going on beneath the surface.

Catholic Healthcare team member – Danielle, Catholic Healthcare team member

Brenda’s story

Need Story ....

Acknowledgement of Country

We acknowledge the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the lands on which we live, work, and dream. We pay our respects to the Wallumedegal People. To their Indigenous Elders past and present, for they hold the traditions, culture, and hopes of their people as we journey towards reconciliation. We acknowledge that they have occupied and cared for these lands and waterways over countless generations. It always was, and always will be, Aboriginal land.