From Homelessness to Hope: Scott’s new beginning in community housing

Posted on: 17/02/2026 - 9:43am

‘Where am I going to sleep? Where am I going to live?’ 

These were the questions that went through Scott’s mind when he found himself suddenly homeless in 2016, after life took some unexpected turns. 

Scott, who is an avid comedy movie fan and volunteer community radio host, reflected that it was “pretty bad out there” at the time. 

What followed was a time of uncertainty as Scott moved between metro and regional Victoria. The impact had serious consequences for his mental health. He was left unsure of where to go, or who to turn to. 

Scott was introduced to the VincentCare-owned Ozanam House, which provides housing and wrap-around support to people on their journey. 

Scott received help through their men’s group and attended the OzHarvest NEST program. NEST, which stands for Nutritional Education Skills Training teaches people about healthy eating and cooking skills, helping to make lasting changes in people’s lives. 

Scott was offered an interview for a brand-new community housing development in Footscray and was able to move from Ozanam House to his very own home.  

The Footscray development – funded by Homes Victoria through its Big Housing Build – brings 92 new social housing homes to people on the Victorian Housing Register and offers on-site support services. 

The building is energy efficient and equipped with double-glazed windows to keep outside noise to a minimum. 

Shopping, transport and medical facilities are also a short walk away. 

Scott now looks out from his balcony across the sweeping views of Flemington Racecourse, Melbourne Showgrounds and the city. 

He remembers how good it felt when he first entered the building: “you open up the door, and you feel welcome.”  

He feels positive about his future and has a newfound confidence he once thought impossible.  

When asked how it feels to have his own home, Scott doesn’t hesitate. 

“[It means] freedom and a new life. It’s a home to call home.” 

Scott now has stable housing, ongoing support and is looking forward to what comes next – new opportunities, more volunteering and a new beginning he can call his own. 

What is community housing?

Community housing organisations are non-for-profit organisations that offer secure, long-term housing for people on low-to-moderate incomes. They reinvest money into building more homes for more people, while offering tailored support to their residents.   

The main difference between community housing and public housing, is that community housing is run by not-for-profit community housing organisations, while public housing is run by the state government.     

Renters who live in community housing have the same rights as renters in public housing under the Residential Tenancies Act (1997).  

To be eligible for community housing, applicants must be registered on the Victorian Housing Register and select “Community Housing” when applying. This can be accessed at housing.vic.gov.au, alternatively, support agencies can assist prospective tenants to apply 

More information

For general enquiries about Homes Victoria projects: