Mosman House helps 57 older women over five years
A report on Mosman House has found that the former vacant retirement home had delivered over 25,000 safe nights for vulnerable older women over five years.
The vacant North Shore building was turned into 18 safe, ‘meanwhile’ (transitional) homes for 57 women aged 50 and over between 2020 and 2025.
The report was launched by NSW Minister for Housing and Homelessness, Rose Jackson, at the Meanwhile Use Housing Forum on 13 May.
The project was a partnership between leading community housing provider Link Wentworth, specialist service provider Women’s Community Shelters, and Twilight Aged Care, with the support of corporate and philanthropic donors.
Mosman Mayor Anne Marie Kimber praised the service providers and property owners that were ‘implementing such incredible and meaningful partnerships.’
“We welcome more creative and compassionate housing solutions like this, through partnerships that recognise the potential of temporarily unused buildings to provide dignity, safety and stability for people when they need it most,” Mayor Kimber told NL.
“All levels of government can work together to help make it easier for service providers and owners of unused properties to utilise these for housing opportunities for people in need, from helping reduce red tape to promoting potential opportunities and services.
“Working with local services and referring people in need is another small but meaningful step that councils and other government agencies can also take.”
Mosman House residents ranged in age from 50 to 81, with an average age of 59. The most common challenges faced when accessing housing were affordability pressures, domestic and family violence, and financial hardship.
Women’s Community Shelters CEO Annabelle Daniel said transitional housing solutions like Mosman House gave women the stability and support they need to rebuild their lives.
“These are women who have spent their lives caring for others – raising families, supporting communities, often without recognition or financial security. And yet they are now among the fastest-growing groups experiencing homelessness,” Ms Daniel said.
“At Mosman House, older women found access to safety, housing and critical supports they needed for a secure future, in a beautiful and welcoming environment.”
Twilight Aged Care Services CEO Niamh Mannion said the project demonstrated the importance of rethinking how existing spaces can be used to support vulnerable Australians.
“Mosman House offered that foundation, intentionally designed as a transitional project to meet urgent need while the site awaited redevelopment.”
Link Wentworth CEO Andrew McNulty said the report delivered a clear call to action for governments, developers and landowners to embrace Meanwhile Use housing.
“Vacant properties should be seen as an opportunity, a way to deliver immediate relief for those at risk of homelessness while longer-term solutions are developed. Everyone deserves a safe place to call home,” Mr McNulty said.