News

News | 2.02.24
A generous donation for our Geelong office

Inspired by the compassion she experienced in her own difficult moments, Geelong local Caitlyn has paid forward the kindness she once received. 

Read more
News | 22.12.23
Our Year in Review: Unison's achievements and highlights

As we reflect on the past year, it's evident that 2023 has seen significant strides and noteworthy achievements for Unison.

Read more
News | 20.11.23
All women deserve to be safe, equal and respected

Saturday 25 November is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

Read more
News | 30.10.23
Make Room construction is underway

Delivering more homes for Melbournians most in need.

Read more
News | 26.10.23
Unison Property Corporation

Transforming spaces. Empowering lives.

Read more
News | 3.10.23
Renewal. A story of another life.

 Ali's story is one of rehabilitation, renewal and inspiration.

Read more
News | 2.10.23
Unison shortlisted for UDIA Victoria 2023 Award

Groundbreaking property provides homes for women in housing crisis.

Read more
News | 25.08.23
New Heidelberg Heights development addresses housing crisis for women and families

 MEDIA RELEASE

25 August, 2023

Social and affordable housing provider Unison Housing has announced the completion of its 42-unit Heidelberg Heights development which helps ...

Read more
News | 21.08.23
A home full of love and memories

Mandy's home provides her with peace and comfort.

Read more
News | 2.08.23
Homelessness Week

 A week to raise awareness of a complex issue.

Read more
News | 18.07.23
Unison selected for Open House Melbourne

Two Unison properties will be showcased for this much-loved event.

Read more
News | 17.07.23
Rising to meet the challenges

Peter has found his new and final home with Unison, after battling through life's challenges.

Read more
News | 4.07.23
For Our Elders

During National NAIDOC Week and beyond, Unison continue to pay our respects to Elders past and present.

Read more
News | 14.06.23
Thrive community newsletter out now

Catch up on Unison news and information

Read more
News | 31.05.23
Pop up energy savings

Outreach helps our residents get best value energy bill plans.

Read more
News | 19.04.23
Vulnerable young people deserve a brighter future

Youth Homelessness Matters Day is Wednesday 19 April.

Read more
News | 28.03.23
Cottrell Street Werribee is now called home

A Community Celebration was for residents and partners to mark the completion of Unison's $30m affordable housing development.

Read more
News | 1.03.23
New heating and cooling systems for Unison homes

Solar Victoria's upgrade program has delivered energy efficiency and improved quality of life. 

Read more
News | 14.02.23
New waste-wise program for our Kensington community

The program will build on the great work already being done. 

Read more
News | 21.12.22
Seasons' Greetings from the Unison team

Best wishes to one and all over the festive season and the new year. 

Read more
News | 13.12.22
Unison presents the 2022 Annual Report

The 2022 report reflects the continued great work by our team. 

Read more
News | 7.12.22
Thrive summer community newsletter is out now

Our summer 2022 edition includes a range of information and tips for our renters and business updates from Unison.

Read more
Media Release | 12.10.22
Kensington CommUNITY Festival

Unison wishes to announce that it will no longer be leading and delivering the Kensington CommUNITY Festival.

Read more
News | 10.10.22
Unison food hamper program continues beyond lockdown

A partnership initiative delivers much-needed food staples to our vulnerable renters. 

Read more
News | 3.10.22
Property safety and compliance

Unison’s Asset Management team ensures the critical safety systems in our properties are functioning and compliant.   

Read more
News | 27.09.22
Building for a diverse community

Unison proudly builds accessible and adaptable homes to meet the needs of our community now and into the future.  

Read more
News | 20.09.22
Unison update about the Kensington CommUNITY Festival

Unison wishes to announce that it will no longer be leading and delivering the Kensington CommUNITY Festival.

Read more
News | 15.09.22
Unison Housing Research Lab

The Unison Housing Research Lab is a unique education and research collaboration between RMIT University and Unison Housing.

Read more
News | 14.09.22
Make Room - Appointment of Harris HMC

Unison is happy to announce the appointment of Harris HMC as the ECI contractor for the Make Room project. Unison is happy to announce the appointment of Harris HMC as the ECI contractor for the Make Room project. 

Read more
News | 23.08.22
Young family finds a dream home

Unison services assist a family of five to find sustainable affordable housing.

Read more
News | 2.08.22
Homelessness Week: How Make Room helps break the cycle

Finding safe accommodation is the first step on the way out of homelessness. Then the real work begins. 

Read more
News | 1.08.22
Free rapid antigen tests for Victorians with disability

The free rapid antigen tests program for eligible Victorians with disability has been extended to 30 September 2022.

It’s a time to ensure everyone with disability has access to ...

Read more
News | 26.07.22
Collaborating to provide long-term housing outcomes

Unison, one of the largest providers of services for people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness in Melbourne’s West, connects people to safe and affordable short, medium- or ...

Read more
News | 13.07.22
Thrive Community Newsletter out now

The Winter edition of Unison's newsletter, distributed to all our renters, is full of great information.

Read more
News | 4.07.22
Get up! Stand up! Show up!

NAIDOC Week, which celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, will be celebrated from 3– 10 July 2022. The theme this year is Get up! Stand up! Show up!

 
Read more
News | 6.06.22
Unison wins another National Award for Excellence

For the second year in a row, Unison has won the Urban Development Institute of Australia, National Award for Excellence – Affordable Development.

Read more
News | 17.05.22
Unison supports the LGBTQIA+ community

Unison’s vision is to create “communities that thrive”. In order to achieve this vision, it is critical that Unison has a thriving workplace culture that is diverse and inclusive. 

Read more
News | 12.04.22
Youth homelessness matters

On any given night, 6000 young Victorians spend the night without the comfort and safety of a home. April 20 is Youth Homelessness Matters Day.

Read more
News | 11.04.22
Using Discretion When Working With Social Housing Tenants

In a research paper, Unison Housing Research Lab's Abigail Lewis discusses how social workers in the housing and homelessness sectors use discretion and the impact on the people they work with, especially in the context of eviction.

Read more
News | 5.04.22
Is Permanent Supportive Housing permanent?

In a recent research paper, Dr Sarah Taylor and Professor Guy Johnson from the Unison Housing Research Lab examine nine years of tenancy records from Elizabeth Street Common Ground.

Read more
News | 29.03.22
Housing education for the next generation of social workers

A Unison/RMIT education partnership offers students a unique insight into housing and homelessness.  

Read more
News | 24.03.22
Unison Social and Affordable Housing Development Wins Award for Excellence

For the second year in a row, a Unison community housing development wins the UDIA Victoria Award for Excellence – Affordable Housing.

Read more
News | 10.03.22
Lab's Research Supports Victoria's Social Housing Regulation Review

Drawing on our Research, Unison and RMIT's Research Lab weighs in on the Victorian Government Social Housing Regulation Review with two papers on social housing tenancy sustainment.

Read more
News | 9.03.22
We have reached the top!

The 6th and final level of our latest social housing development has been reached.

Read more
News | 23.02.22
Community programs deliver, and more

Unison's community activities have kept our residents connected in COVID safe ways during the pandemic.

Read more
News | 12.01.22
Major philanthropic foundation backs Make Room project

Unison receives $1.75 million philanthropic grant from The Ian Potter Foundation for the Make Room project, in partnership with City of Melbourne.

Read more
News | 4.01.22
A New Home for Youths Experiencing Homelessness

Unison is pleased to unveil new purpose-built supported accommodation for young people in Werribee. Owned and managed by Unison, the youth foyer provides accommodation and dedicated case work support for up to two years to young people aged 16 -25 years that are homeless.

Read more
News | 22.12.21
Heidelberg affordable housing project works have begun

Our $18.3 million Bell Street Heidelberg development is underway.

Read more
News | 22.12.21
New peer-reviewed research - Social Work Education and Homelessness

New peer-reviewed paper discusses how the Unison Housing Research Lab leveraged the partnership between RMIT and Unison Housing to create Australia's first dedicated undergraduate elective subject for social work students.

Read more
News | 21.12.21
Season's Greetings

Season's Greetings from all of us at Unison and we wish you all the best for 2022. 

Read more
News | 21.12.21
Unison property wins Award for Planning Excellence for Great Place

Unison's community housing development in Fairfield, Marjorie Oke Apartments, wins the 2021 PIA VIC Award for Planning Excellence for Great Place.

Read more
News | 13.12.21
Congratulations Marwo!

Marwo lives in Kensington, in a property managed by Unison. We congratulate her on being awarded the Victorian Multicultural Award for Excellence in Community Response and Recovery.

Read more
News | 13.12.21
Fire safety info for our renters

The flier has been sent out with our Summer newsletter and will be used in various different ways to help keep our residents informed and safe. 

Read more
News | 7.12.21
Our Summer Tenant Newsletter is available now.

You'll find a range of interesting and informative articles. 

Read more
News | 30.11.21
A palace fit for a Mum and her boy

"When I first moved in, I wanted to show the world and say Look where I am living!” Read Nina's story, the latest in our resident story series.

Read more
News | 30.11.21
Unison presents at the Victorian Homelessness Conference

Unison is proud to be presenting at the 2021 Victorian Homelessness Conference, contributing to discussions around emerging practices and ways of thinking, as well as deep-dive analyses of successful programs.

Read more
News | 22.11.21
Say no to violence against women

November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. At Unison, we see the effects of gender-based violence on a daily basis, and can all agree that it must stop.

Read more
News | 10.11.21
Bustling community activities just around the corner

“We are very much looking forward to reactivating projects on hold, developing project ideas and seeing lots of smiling faces together again as we carefully transition to a COVID normal.” 

Read more
Media Release | 12.10.21
42 new homes for vulnerable families in Melbourne’s inner north

The Victorian Government partners with Unison to build 42 new homes for vulnerable families in the City of Banyule.

Read more
News | 11.10.21
Unison’s Fairfield community housing development shortlisted for two UDIA Awards for Excellence

We're proud to announce that Unison's social and affordable development in Melbourne's north is finalist for two UDIA Vic 2021 Awards.

Read more
News | 7.10.21
Back on his feet and inspiring others to seek help

Rick's life is back on track.He wants to share his story, assist others in similar circumstances and let them know there is help out there.  

Read more
News | 5.10.21
World Homeless Day October 10

Homelessness can be the result of many social, economic and individual factors. But we know that the shortage of affordable housing is a critical factor.

Read more
News | 28.09.21
38 new homes for women in need in Melbourne’s north

Unison continues to raise the bar in developing social and affordable housing with its latest development in Melbourne’s north.

Read more
News | 27.09.21
On track to deliver 74 new social and affordable homes in Werribee

 Works are well underway in the west on our latest quality social housing build.

Read more
News | 20.09.21
Partnering with City of Melbourne to 'Make Room'

Unison is partnering with the City of Melbourne to provide safe and supported accommodation for people sleeping rough in the city. 

Read more
News | 31.08.21
Life's simple pleasures

Maria and Paolo's life at Kensington is a simple and content one with friends, craft, home grown vegies,home cooked meals and family.  Maria and Paolo's story is part of our resident story series.

Read more
News | 30.08.21
Craft and conversation bring joy

Women are coming together to enjoy hand sewing, knitting, crocheting, having a chat and a cuppa as part of the Threading Stories project. 

Read more
News | 4.08.21
Catch up on our report launch event

Did you miss the launch of our latest report - Sustaining Social Housing, on August 3, 2021, or want to watch it again? Watch the recording of the event and get all the info you missed.

Read more
News | 3.08.21
Research finds why some stay longer in social housing than others

Social housing provides safe, secure, long-term accommodation for some of the most disadvantaged in the community. But new research shows that some people are more likely to stay housed longer than others.

Read more
News | 2.08.21
This week is Homelessness Week

Homelessness Week is an important date in our calendar during which we raise awareness of this complex social issue and its impact in our society. This year we have produced a mini series dispelling homelessness myths.

Read more
News | 26.07.21
A team effort and a few simple steps makes all the difference.

When there was a waste challenge at our Kensington community, our Social Enterprise Team got to work.

Read more
News | 13.07.21
Staying in Place: Social housing and Support Services

In the latest Think Piece of our series, Staying in Place: Social housing and Support Services, Dr Juliet Watson, Deputy Director of the Unison Housing Research Lab, examines a range of issues in relation to support and the importance it holds for people living in social housing.

Read more
News | 7.07.21
Winter Tenant Newsletter

 Our latest edition of Thrive is out now.

Read more
News | 7.07.21
Artist, musician, writer, performer

Anthony’s Unison apartment in an inner-city heritage building reveals a creative life. 

Read more
News | 30.06.21
Celebrating NAIDOC Week 2021

NAIDOC Week will be celebrated nationally from July 4 – July 11. The week celebrates the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Read more
News | 9.06.21
Achieving their dreams

Read Susan and her children's story of strength, resilience and a postive outlook in the face of homelessness.

Read more
News | 29.04.21
Unison wins National Award for Excellence in Affordable Development

We are proud to announce that Unison won the Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) National Award for Excellence for our social housing development in Melbourne's west.

Read more
News | 28.04.21
We've joined the compost revolution!

Our Enterprise Team is making great use of plant cuttings and food scraps at our Kensington community by turning it into valuable compost 

Read more
News | 20.04.21
Breaking the cycle of youth homelessness with safe and supported accommodation

Did you know that one in four people experiencing homelessness in Victoria are aged between 12 and 24? 

Read more
Media Release | 19.04.21
New $30m social and affordable housing project for Werribee

Victorian Treasurer and Member for Werribee Tim Pallas and Minister for Housing Richard Wynne joined leading social housing provider Unison to turn the first sod and celebrate the start of construction of a $30 million new social and affordable housing development in Werribee.

Read more
News | 14.04.21
A place to call home

Susan's home and community is where her heart is. Helping her community is what she loves.   

Read more
News | 13.04.21
Station Street Fairfield redevelopment in the final stages

We are very excited to share the news that our Station Street Fairfield redevelopment is nearing completion.

Read more
News | 8.04.21
Calling on the Federal Government to invest in social housing

"The Victorian Government already demonstrated a clear commitment to supporting the most disadvantaged people through the Big Housing Build. We now call on the Federal Government to do the same." Unison CEO James King

Read more
News | 31.03.21
Part 3. In conversation with Dr Sarah Taylor, Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Unison Housing

In Part three and the final interview, Sarah reveals what Lab projects she’s working on at the moment and what’s in planning. â€¯ 

Read more
News | 30.03.21
The final report for the Victorian Parliamentary Inquiry into Homelessness is out

We are honored to have contributed to the Inquiry, both presenting at a public hearing and with a submission.,

Read more
News | 25.03.21
Tenants have your say!

Unison conducts Tenant Satisfaction Surveys to provide our tenants, with the opportunity to give open and honest feedback on how we are doing and to help us improve our services.

Read more
News | 18.03.21
Unison’s Footscray social housing development wins two UDIA Awards for Excellence

We are proud to announce that Unison’s Napier Street Footscray apartment complex has won three Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) Awards for Excellence.

Read more
News | 17.03.21
Part 2. In conversation with Dr Sarah Taylor, Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Unison Housing

In Part 2 of our conversation with Sarah, we talk about the importance of the practical application of Lab’s research, surprising research findings and opportunities for the Lab’s work to influence change.

Read more
News | 17.03.21
Celebrating Cultural Diversity

Harmony Day is on Sunday March 21 and Cultural Diversity Week will take place from March 21 to March 28 

Read more
News | 10.03.21
Assistance for our homelessness service is much needed and appreciated

Since March 2020 when COVID hit, Unison’s homelessness teams worked tirelessly to assist over 1500 households. To assist with the demand for temporary hotel accommodation during COVID-19, our IAP service welcomed six new team members.

Read more
News | 9.03.21
Part 1. In conversation with Dr Sarah Taylor from the Unison Housing Research Lab

Dr Sarah Taylor is Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at the Unison Housing Research Lab. She is a data scientist and researcher who brings a love of administrative data.

Read more
News | 2.03.21
Solar panel project features in peak body report

We are chuffed to see Unison’s solar panel installation project featured as a case study in a Community Housing Industry Association Victoria (CHIA Vic) energy efficiency report.

Read more
News | 1.03.21
Industry partnership delivers real world training in homelessness

RMIT students are gaining a unique perspective through the first homelessness and housing course developed in collaboration with industry.

Read more
News | 4.02.21
Housing and homelessness course ready to kick off

The course brings students together from varying learning disciplinesoffers both homelessness theory and site visits to homelessness services.

Read more
News | 2.02.21
Nurturing a food garden for all to enjoy

 “I have loved helping. It is so nice to see how much it has grown since we started the garden.”  

Read more
News | 2.02.21
Equity Economics Report predicts homelessness will surge

 More affordable housing is needed.

Read more
News | 23.12.20
Season's Greetings!

Season's Greetings from all of us at Unison and we wish you all the best for 2021. 

Read more
News | 23.12.20
More sustainability projects underway in our Kensington community

Together with our partners we have established an impressive list of sustainability projects that are caring for and rejuvenating our Kensington community.

Read more
News | 22.12.20
Part 3 of our conversation with Dr Juliet Watson, Deputy Director of the Unison Housing Research Lab

The final of our 3 part conversation with Juliet where she talks about what sparked her interest in homelessness, her particular research interests and what projects are on the horizon.

Read more
News | 21.12.20
Unison Summer Tenant Newsletter

 Our Summer Tenant Newsletter is available now.

Read more
News | 16.12.20
Part 2: Meet Dr Juliet Watson. Unison Housing Research Lab researcher and education co-ordinator

In Part two of our conversation with the Unison Housing Research Lab Deputy Director, Dr Juliet Watson, she tells us about her role as the curriculum developer and coordinator of the first dedicated course on homelessness and housing.  

Read more
News | 9.12.20
Part 1. In conversation with Dr Juliet Watson, Deputy Director of the Unison Housing Research Lab

Dr Juliet Watson is the Deputy Director of the Unison Housing Research Lab. Juliet is a sociologist, social worker, academic and educator. 

Read more
News | 25.11.20
End violence against women

November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.  

Read more
News | 17.11.20
Private rental experience is a real plus for the PRAP team

Unison’s PRAP supports low-income households to secure and maintain private rental housing. The team members' experience in private property rental has proved invaluable.

Read more
News | 2.11.20
Congratulations Erika! A Melbourne Awards Community Champion finalist.

Unison resident Erika Lodge, has been selected as a finalist in the Community Champion category of the City of Melbourne, 2020 Melbourne Awards.

Read more
News | 2.11.20
Housing stability takes more than just a house; it also takes kindness and support.

Irena is a Unison Housing Support Worker, a role funded by the Department of Health and Human services to provide health and wellbeing support to vulnerable residents. 

Read more
News | 27.10.20
Part 2. An interview with Professor Guy Johnson, Director of the Unison Housing Research Lab

Homelessness. What has changed and what has stayed the same. Part 2 of an interview with Prof Johnson.

Read more
News | 21.10.20
Part 1. An interview with Professor Guy Johnson, Director of the Unison Housing Research Lab

What does the Unison Housing Research Lab do differently? The Director, Professor Guy Johnson explains.  

Read more
News | 10.10.20
Not business as usual, World Homeless Day 2020

Nikki, one of the Team Leaders at Unison’s homelessness service did a simple calculation. She checked the service contact actions recorded on the same day twelve months ago, and then looked ...

Read more
News | 6.10.20
Bumper harvest in times of COVID

Families in Kensington are happily eating their greens as the award-winning Kensington Food Forest is growing bumper vegie and herb crops for families in need of fresh ...

Read more
News | 1.10.20
Appointment of James King as CEO, effective from Thursday, 1 October

 “James' leadership has been exemplary while acting as CEO over the last six months, steering the organisation through the challenges of Covid-19 while setting a strong vision for the ...

Read more
News | 29.09.20
Tenants and the environment benefit from solar panel installation

Unison has completed a staged solar panel installation at our social housing properties set to provide both financial and environmental benefits.

Read more
News | 23.09.20
Supporting and sustaining tenancies: Unison research and practice.

Unison has featured in the latest Council to Homeless Persons’ Parity magazine. 

Acting CEO James KingSue Grigg Director for Housing and Homelessness and the Unison Housing Research Lab team have authored articles for the edition, which has the theme, Supporting and Sustaining Tenancies in Community Housing. 

Read more
News | 14.09.20
COVID-19 has definitely brought the Exec. Team closer

Unison's Acting CEO James King, talks about how the pandemic has changed his day-to-day.

Read more
News | 10.09.20
Common Ground’s tenth anniversary

Our Elizabeth Street Common Ground project is now 10 years old! 

Read more
News | 2.09.20
New life for an historic building and its residents

Works are well underway at a Unison property in Fairfield, which will transform an historic property with a very interesting history, into 38  modern self contained apartments for vulnerable women.

Read more
News | 11.08.20
Without them by my side

Homelessness isn't always what you think it is. Lisa shares her story of her time without a home and the companionship of her cat and dog. 

Read more
News | 6.08.20
The great disruption: How COVID-19 might help us to end homelessness

Despite the social and economic toll that COVID-19 will doubtless exact on the country, COVID-19 may – paradoxically – be the catalyst that drives the housing and homelessness policy changes we need.Despite the social and economic toll that COVID-19 will doubtless exact on the country, COVID-19 may – paradoxically – be the catalyst that drives the housing and homelessness policy changes we need.

Read more
News | 20.07.20
Coronavirus (Covid-19) Restrictions Update

 Unison continues to carefully monitor the current developments related to the COVID-19 (Coronavirus disease) pandemic, to understand the impacts on our community, services and activities.  

Read more
News | 19.07.20
In the news: "'Like a five-star hotel': Homeless find stability in a place of their own"

Mr De Olizeara moved into his own self-contained flat in Footscray after social housing non-profit Unison transformed a dilapidated apartment block into 54 new affordable and modern units.

Read more
News | 16.07.20
Rapport and great relationships the key to success for Unison’s PRAP

Unison’s Private Rental Access Program (PRAP) supports low-income households to secure and maintain housing in Melbourne’s West. A research report on the Program has just been released and Hollie, a team member, talks about her pride in her work.

Read more
News | 10.07.20
Unison Winter Tenant Newsletter

Our Winter Newsletter is available now.

Read more
News | 30.06.20
We wish the UNO community and our team members a fond farewell

Today is Unison’s final day at the UNO in Adelaide. We will pass the baton to community housing organisation, AnglicareSA Housing Limited as of tomorrow July 1.

Read more
News | 24.06.20
Private Rental Access Program evaluation launched

The Unison Housing Research Lab (the Lab) has undertaken an evaluation of Unison’s PRAP, and has released its findings in the report, Staying Home? Examining the longer-term housing outcomes of the Private Rental Access Program, (PRAP).

Read more
News | 23.06.20
The type of place that you hope for

The first thing that strikes you when you walk into Bk’s studio is the light. 

It flows into the studio space from two glorious floor to ceiling windows that face onto a street tree resplendent with autumn colour. 

 

Read more
News | 9.06.20
Kensington Network springs into action

When Government restrictions were swiftly implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Kensington Community Network sprang into action, developing a range of initiatives to assist our most vulnerable community members and lift spirits.    

Read more
News | 3.06.20
54 new affordable and contemporary homes in Melbourne West 

Today we proudly launched a new social housing development in Footscraywith funding support from the Victorian State Government’s Victorian Property Fund 

Read more
News | 27.05.20
From backstage for the Rolling Stones to the Black Saturday fires; This is Eric's story.

From backstage for the Rolling Stones to working for the CFA and SES, Eric has had incredible life experiences and provided remarkable service to the community.

Read more
News | 25.05.20
Supported accommodation for young people

Unison and Melbourne City Mission jointly authored an article in the April 2020 edition of the Council for Homeless Persons national magazine Parity. The issue focusses on new developments and initiatives in the response to youth homelessness.  

 

Read more
News | 19.05.20
Housing the homeless now and after the pandemic.

On any given night in Australia, over 100,000 people are experiencing homelessness of some kind. (ABS 2016 Census ...

Read more
News | 18.05.20
Unison passes the UNO baton to AnglicareSA Housing Limited

After 8 years managing the mixed-use UNO Apartments in Adelaide’s CBD, Unison will pass the baton to community housing organisationAnglicareSA Housing Limited as of July 1. 

Read more
News | 14.05.20
IDAHOBIT May 17

Sunday May 17 is the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Intersexphobia and Transphobia.

Read more
News | 12.05.20
Unison Acting CEO joins CHIA Vic Board

Unison is delighted to announce Acting CEO James King has been appointed to  Read more

News | 28.04.20
Some great COVID-19 resources

There is some really informative and comprehensive COVID-19 information available. Here are a few websites we would like to share with you.

 

Read more

News | 14.04.20
Youth Homelessness Matters to Us

 April 15 is Youth Homelessness Matters Day.

Read more
News | 1.04.20
Dorothy brings joy through crafts, connection and creativity.

In the latest in our Tenant Story series, we learn how Dorothy brings joy to her community through her generous spirit.

Read more
News | 27.03.20
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Update

We are making some changes to the way we work to protect our tenants, clients, staff and the community.

Read more
News | 25.03.20
Neighbour Day 2020

This Sunday stay connected and celebrate the importance of neighbourliness - from a distance.

Read more
News | 23.03.20
Cultural Diversity Week March 21-29

How will you celebrate Cultural Diversity Week?

Read more
News | 13.03.20
2020 Kensington CommUNITY Festival Postponed

We regret to advise that the Festival has been postponed until further notice.

Read more
News | 28.02.20
Unison’s submission to Victoria’s first ever Parliamentary Inquiry into Homelessness

As always, we continue to advocate for an increase in the supply of social housing.

Read more
News | 12.02.20
Specialist Homelessness Services annual report confirms our daily experience

At Unison, we know full well the housing crisis we are facing through our homelessness services in Melbourne’s West. Our service response focuses on meeting the needs of individual clients as they come through our doors as each household has a range of unique circumstances and needs. 

Read more
News | 7.02.20
90+ self-contained homes in development

Did you know that Unison not only manages social and affordable housing but also builds more?

Our property development team works to increase the supply of affordable housing for ...

Read more
News | 5.02.20
Brava Sandra. A community champion.

Sandra arrived at the Kensington public housing estate in the 80’s as a single mum with her young family. High rise, high density public housing living was new to Sandra. 

Read more

News | 30.01.20
Join Unison’s Tenant Advisory Group today!

>> Are you 18 or over and have been a tenant with Unison for at least one year?
>> Do you want to help Unison deliver the best possible services to meet tenant’s ...

Read more
News | 23.01.20
'Gong xi fa tsai' - Happy Chinese New Year

Gong xi fa cai (Happy Lunar New Year) to everyone celebrating, and we wish you, as the literal translation states, great happiness and ...

Read more
News | 16.01.20
Christmas around our communities

Although Christmas is now a fading memory, it is lovely to keep the memories alive for just a little while longer.

We celebrated around our communities with barbecues, lunches and the ...

Read more
News | 18.12.19
My home. My heaven.

Victoria says that she has been born 3 times.

The first time as a baby in Iraq. The 2nd time when she arrived safely in Australia as a refugee. The 3rd time when she moved in to her lovely ...

Read more
News | 12.12.19
Our communities get festive

This time of year can be tough for people experiencing homelessness and those who are disconnected from family and who are socially isolated.

Read more

News | 28.11.19
Unison's 2019 Annual Report available now

We are pleased to present Unison’s 2019 Annual Report.

This year’s report reflects the incredible work undertaken by our team in line with our strategic direction, values and ...

Read more
News | 27.11.19
Life is good for Daya

Life can deal us some really tough blows and Daya has had his fair share.

Daya, originally from Sri Lanka, moved to Australia around 10 years ago and settled in Braybrook in ...

Read more
News | 25.11.19
End Violence Against Women

November 25 is the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. 

Violence against women and girls remains a pervasive problem worldwide with alarming figures ...

Read more
News | 22.10.19
Frank Otis. A life of advocacy.

An artist and music buff with an impressive music collection, Frank, a resident at one of Unison’s properties, is a true community champion.

Frank has acted in local theatre ...

Read more
News | 19.09.19
Who uses IAP services?

New research by the Unison Housing Research Lab has analysed the records of over 12,000 households that accessed Unison’s Initial Assessment and Planning (IAP) ...

Read more
News | 29.08.19
Unison Community Food Forest wins national award

We are delighted to announce that Unison’s Community Food Forest in Kensington won the National Leading Community Engagement Practice Award at the AHI 2019 Professional Excellence in Housing ...

Read more
News | 26.08.19
Mother, Grandmother, Masters student and family violence survivor advocate. Andrea shares her story.

Andrea was a Unison transitional housing resident. She now lives in a stable, affordable home and is studying for her Masters in Criminology at RMIT, having completed her Law Degree.

But ...

Read more
Media Release | 6.08.19
Should Australia have a law to prevent homelessness?

Melbourne, 6 August 2019 - MEDIA RELEASE

"Australia could reduce homelessness if we adopted the Welsh model of requiring governments to deliver prevention support," says Council to ...

Read more
News | 1.07.19
The Thrive Community Newsletter is out!

We are pleased to share Unison's latest tenant newsletter. This edition is packed with updates from our Tenant Advisory Group, tips for keeping mould away this winter, the ...

Read more
News | 26.06.19
Place Managers: helping our tenants feel at home

Meet Safiya and Darren – two of our staff members in the Unison Place Management team.

Read more

News | 20.06.19
NAIDOC week: Let's build pathways to closing the gap

Unison acknowledges and respects the Traditional Owners and Custodians of the land we live and work on.

NAIDOC week, celebrated nationally July ...

Read more
News | 30.05.19
Martin shares his story of a journey and a place

“My father was Luritja and a traditional Lore Man and mum was Arrente/Wurrununga. I am originally from Alice Springs, but have mostly lived in Adelaide from about six weeks of ...

Read more
News | 28.05.19
State Government commits to more funding for PRAP

Unison welcomes the State Government’s commitment to extend funding to the Private Rental Assistance program (PRAP) which will assist over 6,000 Victorians in need.

Under the ...

Read more
News | 22.05.19
AHI Award for the Kensington Community Food Forest

We are proud to have received the Leading Community Engagement Practice Award for our Kensington Community Food Forest project, at the recent AHI Victorian 2019 Professional Excellence in ...

Read more
Media Release | 14.05.19
PRAP - the program ending homelessness before its starts

Melbourne, 14 May 2019 - In a tight housing market where public and social housing are in such short supply, we need to be looking towards the private rental market as a key part of the ...

Read more
News | 13.05.19
Ramadan

Ramadan Mubarak to everyone celebrating and we wish you a healthy and joyful May.

Read more
News | 16.04.19
Youth Homelessness Matters to us

Youth Homelessness Matters Day on April 17 brings a focus to the plight of young people who are homeless or at risk of not having a safe and stable home.

More than 28, 000 young Australians ...

Read more
News | 7.03.19
Moving into social housing not smooth for all, research shows

A new research report produced by RMIT and Unison Housing shows that the transition into social housing can be precarious for some people, with 43% of tenants exiting their social housing within ...

Read more
News | 30.01.19
Unison Research Lab forum - Who stays and who leaves community housing, and why?

What makes some tenancies successful, whilst others fail? Which tenants are more likely to have exit early and for what reasons? How can we better support tenants to stay housed?

Unison ...

Read more
News | 14.11.18
Unison first to sign up to the Victorian Housing Register

Unison is the first Housing Association to sign up to the Victorian Housing Register, a single central waiting list for people wanting to access public or community housing across ...

Read more
News | 20.09.18
Statement from the Board: Unison CEO

The Unison Board has accepted the resignation of CEO Jack Panton.

Mr. Panton has said in a message to Unison staff, stakeholders and clients:

“I care deeply about the work that ...

Read more
News | 7.08.18
Homelessness Week August 6 - 12, 2018

During Homelessness Week we are reminded of the sad fact that homelessness is on the increase and affordable housing is increasingly out of reach for many vulnerable people.

Professor of ...

Read more
News | 25.07.18
More seniors experiencing housing instability

The number of older people in rental stress has jumped 42% in the last 5 years. Imagine ageing without a secure place to call home?

Yet another reason we need governments to invest in ...

Read more
News | 10.07.18
NAIDOC Week July 8-15

NAIDOC Week celebrations are held across Australia each July to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. NAIDOC is celebrated not only in ...

Read more
News | 27.06.18
ABC News Breakfast features the Kensington Urban Food Forest

The Kensington Urban Food Forest featured on ABC News Breakfast this week.

The Food Forest launched last November, is the first community food forest in the City of Melbourne. It ...

Read more
Media | 12.06.18
Affordable housing slump in Wyndham

As one of the largest providers of housing and homelessness services in the west, Unison knows all too well there is a shrinking pool of affordable rental in the area.

Unison's CEO Jack ...

Read more
News | 28.05.18
Unison pays respect to traditonal owners and our shared history

This year the theme of National Reconciliation Week, is Don’t Keep History a Mystery. In the spirit of the week, we wish to highlight the traditional owners of the lands on ...

Read more
News | 9.05.18
Backyard Blitz!

Read more
News | 2.05.18
Unison continues to bring the housing affordability issue to light

Unison's CEO Jack Panton and Head of Strategy and Communications Sarah Toohey, recently featured across a number of media channels highighting the growing youth homelessness issue and the dire ...

Read more
News | 18.04.18
Youth Homelessness Matters

Today is Youth Homelessness Matters Day. Almost 40% of people who are homeless in Victoria are under 25 and we are acutely aware of this escalating and shameful issue as a primary access point in ...

Read more
News | 17.04.18
Unison appoints new CEO

Unison is pleased to announce that Jack Panton has commenced as Chief Executive Officer. Jack comes to Unison with over 15 years of property development and investment experience in private ...

Read more
News | 27.03.18
Everybody's Home

Our complex and unbalanced housing system means many people are missing out.

Homes are out of reach for too many Australians, either to buy or rent. Competition for rental properties is ...

Read more
News | 20.03.18
Census homeless stats tell the same old story

The recently released ABS Census data shows an 11% increase in homelessness since 2011. The data reveals there has been an 8.3% increase in the number of females who are ...

Read more
News | 21.02.18
A letter to us from Erika

Recently we received a wonderful letter from a tenant and community champion, who in addition to a whole host of community initiatives, organises a delicious Christmas lunch for the tenants at ...

Read more
News | 31.01.18
Unison is one year old!

Twelve months ago Yarra Community Housing and Urban Communities joined up to become Unison.  The past 12 months have flown by and we thank our staff for their continued commitment, energy and ...

Read more
News | 20.12.17
New homes for Wyndham's rough sleepers

Unison is a member of the H3 Wyndham Alliance, made up pf nine local agencies and the Wyndham City Council. The Alliance has been established to address housing vulnerability by increasing housing ...

Read more
News | 20.12.17
Annual Report 2017

Link to our Annual Report 2017 and read about our first year as Unison, the breadth of our services and ...

Read more
News | 20.12.17
Community gardens are pretty special

We have some wonderful gardens across our communities where our residents can grow, harvest and cook fresh healthy produce. Many of these gardens are in partnership with other like minded ...

Read more
News | 29.11.17
Life memberships and staff awards presented at the Unison AGM

Unison's inaugural AGM was held Thursday November 23 at RMIT's Design Hub.  Wurundjeri Elder, Perry Wandin performed the Welcome to Country and Jane Evans (Unison Chair), Barry Diamond ...

Read more
News | 26.09.17
Ready to grow

Our McIntyre Drive Altona residents are ready and waiting for the warm Spring sunshine (aren’t we all!) to help grow fresh food in their new planter boxes.

The planter boxes were ...

Read more
News | 11.09.17
Proportion of affordable housing in new builds needs to increase

We are in the midst of a housing affordability crisis. It is crucial the percentage of affordable housing in new developments increases. Read about one tenant's experience and CEO ...

Read more
News | 4.09.17
We vote YES

Unison’s vision is Communities that Thrive.  A key ingredient to achieving this vision is that all people are treated fairly and without discrimination and we recognise the ...

Read more
News | 22.08.17
Urban Food Forest

Unison has partnered with local permaculture practitioner Jacqui Van Heerden with funding provided by the City of Melbourne to create an Urban Food Forest, providing a food garden and active ...

Read more
News | 14.08.17
Over 55's move to high priority social housing wait list

The Victorian State Government will move 7,000 people over 55 to the high priority social housing wait list and have promised to provide 6,000 new homes to help reduce the State's growing list of ...

Read more
News | 7.08.17
Homelessness Week 7-13 August

Unison is one of the largest organisations in Melbourne's West assisting people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness with housing support. 

Homelessness Week is coordinated by ...

Read more
News | 31.07.17
Research team member appointed

Unison is very pleased to advise Dr Juliet Watson has been appointed to the position of Lecturer in Urban Housing and Homelessness and the Deputy Director of the Unison Housing Research Lab at ...

Read more
News | 10.07.17
Unison Tenant Advisory Group Convenor announced

Congratulations Frank Otis on being named Unison’s Tenant Advisory Group (TAG) convenor. TAG ensures we get feedback and ideas directly from our residents in order to continuously improve ...

Read more
News | 5.07.17
New homes available

We have completed the purchase and settlement of 17 much needed social housing properties through the Victorian State Government's Rapid Housing Assistance Fund. We managed to purchase an ...

Read more
News | 3.07.17
Wheeler Centre discusses homelessness

Unison CEO Michael Perusco recently joined a panel discussion at The Wheeler Centre regarding the complex problems of homelessness and housing solutions. Erica, a Unison resident also gave ...

Read more
News | 3.07.17
Naidoc Week 2-9 July 2017

NAIDOC Week is a time to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements and is an opportunity to recognise the contributions that Indigenous Australians make to ...

Read more
News | 1.06.17
Public Housing Renewal Program

Unison welcomes the Victorian Government's commitment to the Public Housing Renewal Program, which will involve the redevelopment of eight public housing estates across metropolitan ...

Read more
Media | 29.05.17
Build-to-rent developments offer long term stability for renters

Long term leases may soon be available in renter-only buildings in Melbourne. Replicating the US and UK models, properties are held as rentals rather than on sold by developers. We believe ...

Read more
News | 24.05.17
Reconciliation Week 27 May to 3 June

National Reconciliation Week is an annual celebration and a time for all Australians to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander achievements in the journey towards ...

Read more
Media | 15.05.17
Mixed communities make good sense

A mix of social, affordable and market priced homes makes good sense all round. Our Kensington community is a 6.5ha example of a community for all, irrespective on income types.  Read Read more

Media | 12.05.17
What the 2017 Federal Budget means for housing and homelessness

Michael Perusco, CEO and RMIT's Professor Guy Johnson, inaugural chair of Urban Housing and Homelessness discuss what the recent Federal budget means for housing and ...

Read more
News | 8.05.17
6000+ turn out in force at the Kensington CommUNITY Festival

Attendance records were broken at the recent 10th Kensington CommUNITY Festival led by Unison. The purpose of the Festival throughout its 10 years has been to celebrate, engage and ...

Read more
Media | 27.03.17
CEO talks affordable housing on ABC's Lateline

Unison CEO Michael Perusco recently appeared on ABC's Lateline to talk affordable housing. Watch the program here.

Read more
Media | 12.03.17
Mixed communities offer affordable housing for those in the "middle market"

Ineligible for social housing, unable to buy or rent at market rates, affordable housing in a welcoming community provides a home for people like Unison resident Janie. Unison's CEO Michael ...

Read more
Media | 2.03.17
Western suburbs tragedy for people sleeping rough

The death of 3 people sleeping rough in the western suburbs has highlighted that homelessnes in the CBD is just the tip of the iceberg. Read more  Read more

Media | 23.02.17
Vic. Govt. affordable housing policy welcomed

The Victorian Government's recent housing affordability policy announcement to act as guarantor for social housing development projects will allow housing organisations to leverage private sector ...

Read more
Media | 10.02.17
Affordable properties disappearing for those on low incomes

An ongoing demand for affordable rental properties for average Melbourne renters is squeezing those on low incomes out. Read more  Read more

News | 31.01.17
Unison Launches!

Yarra Community Housing and Urban Communities Limited have merged and on 1 February 2017 the new organisation will start operations as Unison! 

As Unison, we will build on the ...

Read more