Mary's Fresh Start at Unison
Mary’s career unfolded during a time when married women weren’t entitled to superannuation. After her divorce and eventual retirement, she was left with only a modest amount of super and her pension to rely on. For years, Mary moved between unsuitable and unsafe rentals before connecting with Unison, where she found a clean and accessible home that has become her safe haven.
Life Before Unison
After her divorce, Mary’s housing situation became unstable. She had previously owned a home in Caulfield South with her husband, but after their separation, Mary was unable to afford a house of her own and moved into a series of rental properties.
One of her longest stays was in a property at Market Place, Werribee, where she lived for ten years, paying just $200 a week—an amount unheard of in today’s cost-of-living crisis. This period of relative stability ended when the landlord sold the property, leaving Mary in a difficult position.
“I felt awful because I didn’t know what I could do or afford. I only had my pension. When I was working, married women weren’t allowed super, so I didn’t have much saved.”
Without superannuation savings or financial security, Mary faced an uncertain future.
Finding Stability with a New Home
Feeling unsure about her next steps, Mary asked her friend’s daughter, a former Unison employee, for guidance. She provided her with Unison’s contact details, and with their assistance, Mary was able to secure a rental. Unison also covered her bond, which was a relief given her limited savings.
“I didn’t have enough money for a security deposit. For Unison to assist with this was really helpful.”
Several years later, Mary received a call from Unison offering her a unit in Cottrell Street, Werribee, which is now her home. Staying within the same area made the transition easier for Mary:
“Because I didn’t have to move very far from where I was, I was already familiar with everything.”
First Impressions of Cottrell Street
Mary enjoys living in her unit at Cottrell Street, describing it as clean, airy, and well-maintained. The park across the road adds to the home's appeal, and its convenience and accessibility are key features that Mary values:
“It’s close to Werribee for shopping and things, and because I don’t drive, that’s so important. It’s also easy to clean and I love having a proper walk-in shower.”
Mary's health issues, including a thyroid condition and hypertension, have improved since moving to Cottrell Street. This is thanks, in large part, due to her stable living situation alleviating her anxiety.
“This home has allowed me to feel secure and more relaxed. It’s made such a positive difference in my life.”
Connection to Community
Moving to her new home has provided Mary with a much-needed reprieve from Melbourne’s rental crisis. She shares:
“I’m a lot more relaxed than I used to be. It’s freeing and liberating.”
The move has also enabled Mary to remain actively involved in her community. She previously worked as Catering Manager at Laverton Bowling Club – only a short walk down the road – and continues to bowl for the social connection. On Wednesday nights, she volunteers with her sister Kathy at Bingo, helping to raise funds for the club.
Mary also regularly attends residents’ BBQs organised by Unison, which she believes fosters a sense of community connection.
“It’s a good idea. It brings people together.”
Life at Cottrell Street
The Cottrell Street development, completed in November 2022, delivered 74 new dwellings for vulnerable and disadvantaged Victorians. Located in the heart of Werribee, it provides residents with access to nearby education facilities, employment opportunities, health services, and shopping precincts. Onsite support services offer timely and personalised assistance, fostering community inclusion and helping residents to maintain their tenancies.
For Mary, her apartment at Cottrell Street has provided a newfound sense of stability and opportunity. Added to this, the familiar location and environment have helped Mary feel supported. She commends the friendly Unison staff for helping her to secure her property, and for their ongoing support, commenting that:
“The staff are lovely and responsive around maintenance issues. The cleaner at Cottrell Street is a breath of fresh air, she’s always so cheerful.”
A Reprieve from Housing Insecurity
At Unison, our mission is to provide affordable housing that empowers renters like Mary to live with stability, comfort and independence. By addressing housing insecurity, we strive to create homes where individuals can thrive and connect meaningfully with their community. To learn more about our work and how we’re making a difference, visit our website.
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