We’re in this together: Summerhill Village, a community with heart.

At Summerhill Village, there is a strong sense of belonging among residents that is obvious to anyone who enters this unique housing site. 

Residents here have found more than just a place to live – they’ve found a community. 

The newly redeveloped cooperative – designed specifically for women over 55 – has become a haven of safety, stability and friendship for many women who previously faced housing uncertainty in the private rental market. 

For Lynette (Lyn), a proud Bulldogs supporter, moving into the Village felt like winning the lottery. After recovering from a hit-and-run accident that left her with lifelong injuries and unable to sustain work, she feared she’d lose not only her home but her beloved cat as well. 

‘Having a home means security and safety for me and my animal…is vitally important to me.’ 

At Summerhill, Lyn gained both – the security of long-term tenancy and the things that make a house a home.  

‘There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t think, Wow, how lucky am I?!’ 

Lyn says the best part of living at Summerhill Village is the people:  

‘I have met some wonderful people and formed wonderful friendships in such a short time.’ 

When asked, what makes her the happiest, she smiles: 

‘Helping other people, that’s my thing! Being part of the community means helping each other.’ 

For Michelle, 

the move has also been life changing. She was the second person to move into the Village after years of housing insecurity.  

In her previous home, she felt isolated, unsafe and on the brink of homelessness. Now, she lives in a safe, secure home with her daughter Olivia and their pets – and her anxiety and housing stress have faded into the background.  

“It’s good to be involved with other people with different languages. I love talking to everyone. I am more myself now. It’s a good place to be” 

Her daughter Olivia says the move has restored a sense of normality and joy to their lives. 

‘It makes me happy to see Mum happy again – cooking, talking to neighbours, being part of a community. It’s made such a difference.’ 

For Josephine (Jo),

the journey to Summerhill Village has been one of courage and transformation. After fleeing family violence more than 2 decades ago, she endured years of housing instability and addiction before finding support, recovery and now – a long-term home. 

‘I had to keep pinching myself,’ says Jo with a smile. 

‘At night I can see the city lights – it’s so pretty. In the morning, I see the sun come up. It’s just gorgeous.’ 

‘Being here gives us a sense of pride and ownership,’ she says. 

‘We can be involved in decision making and the running of the village. We’re like a family here – we all care for each other.’ 

‘[This is] my forever home.’ 

‘A permanent, safe, affordable place that will last me for the rest of my life. THIS IS MINE, I belong here!” 

Jointly owned by not-for-profit United Housing Co-operative and the Lions Club of Footscray and delivered as part of the Homes Victoria led Big Housing Build, Summerhill Village is designed to enable residents to age in place while enjoying the benefits of community living. 

The Village operates under a co-operative housing model where residents have rights and responsibilities as both tenants and members. Each resident is encouraged to contribute to the growth and well-being of the community to the best of their ability. 

In return, residents benefit from being part of an engaged, caring community and enjoy access to communal areas including community gardens and a Multi-Purpose Community Facility – used for activities like walking, cooking and exercise classes, as well as tenant meetings. 

At Summerhill Village, home means more than 4 walls – it’s a place where people find safety, purpose and friendship. For residents like Lynne, Michelle and Jo, it’s proof that when people are given stability, support, community and care they can truly thrive – together. 

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