
This report is about the experiences of people from refugee and asylum seeking backgrounds living in South Australia for seven years or less in relation to housing, social inclusion and health and wellbeing. The `Belonging begins at home¿ study found that: many people had successfully navigated the complexities of the housing market to secure housing they were happy with; located themselves in neighbourhoods that provided them with what they required; forged connections within their communities of origin and also with others in Australia; made strong contributions through volunteering and community group involvement; had a sense of hope for the future. However for some there were: significant barriers in securing housing; ongoing problems once they had found a house such as heating and cooling, housing condition and rental affordability; difficulties within neighbourhoods - in particular in relation to feeling safe and being close to social connections and services; experiences of discrimination in housing and elsewhere; social isolation; health and wellbeing being issues, particularly in relation to mental health. The study found links between people's experiences of their housing and neighbourhoods, as well as social inclusion, and their health and wellbeing. After consultations with policy makers and practitioners key areas for consideration and recommendations were identified in relation to: improving housing affordability; facilitating access to suitable housing and continued assistance in navigating the private rental market; providing more support for home ownership; promoting positive neighbourhood experiences; promoting social inclusion; supporting good health and wellbeing.
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Publication Date:
2017-08-17
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