Assistance with Care & Housing for the Aged (ACHA)
Funding Body
Department of Health and Ageing (DoHA)
Target Group
The target group is defined as individuals over the age of 55 years (however, for Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander individuals, this can be 50 years of age) who are low income older people renting in insecure accommodation (such as crisis accommodation and boarding houses), or individuals at risk of being or experiencing homelessness.
What is the aim of the program?
ACHA provides a range of services for financially disadvantaged older people to meet both their accommodation and support needs so that they can remain living independently in the community.
What service does the program provide?
ACHA provides the following services:-
Advocacy and assistance to apply for public and/or community housing
Help with removal arrangements and resettlement in housing
Temporary assistance with essential living tasks and health needs until appropriate referral can be made
Temporary housing in transitional accommodation (if available)
Consideration of client ongoing physical, social, emotional needs and their care and housing goals
Liaison with welfare and social support programs to enhance the financial and social resources of clients to secure or maintain appropriate housing
Linking to relevant community support and aged care services.
Follow-up and monitoring after rehousing
Comprehensive Assessment
Care Planning
Goal Plan implementation
Exit if/ when appropriate
What is the program’s assessment and review process?
Assessment process will involve a discussion with client to ascertain their current housing situation and needs. Clients are continuously reviewed to ensure that the service provides high level of appropriate support and case management.
What partnerships does the program have?
ACHA works in partnership with the following crisis housing providers to source appropriate referrals:-
The Station, Wesley Mission, Neami, Centrelink, Matthew Talbot, Housing NSW
ACHA Attends:-
ACHA network meetings, Interagency meetings, Regular meetings with Housing NSW, Informal meetings with community groups.
Program Fees
No fee is charged for the ACHA service.
Who can refer to the program?
Anyone over the age of 55 years (younger if Aboriginal) who are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness.
How do you refer to the program?
Referrals can be made through the Customer Service Centre on 1800 225 474.
Any other information
This service does not provide crisis accommodation.
