Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is Social Housing or Long-term Community Housing?
These terms are interchangeable and refer to housing that is provided by community-based organisations such as National Affordable Housing Victoria (NAHV). It is designed to support individuals and families with low incomes, ensuring they have access to safe and secure housing.
2. Who is eligible for Social Housing?
Eligibility for social housing is based on income levels and housing needs. Generally, you need to be:
• An Australian citizen or permanent resident or special category visa holder
• A Victorian resident
• Meet the income and asset limits for Social Housing. This is dependent on your type of Social Housing application - Priority Access (PA) vs
Register of Interest (ROI).
3. How do I apply for Social Housing?
You can apply for Social Housing using the Victorian Housing Register application. To determine your eligibility and circumstances, you'll need to provide personal and financial information during the Victorian Housing Register application process. Detailed instructions and application forms are available at: https://www.housing.vic.gov.au/apply-social-housing
4. Where can I find my Victorian Housing Register (VHR) Reference Number?
If you have already submitted a Social Housing application with the Victorian Housing Register, you can contact your local Housing Office to obtain your VHR Reference number. This reference number is typically ten digits long and usually starts with a 7 or 9.
5. Can I submit my expression of interest directly to NAHV or should I do it through my support worker?
If you have an approved Victorian Housing Register application, you can submit your expression of interest directly to NAHV. Your support worker is also welcome to submit your expression of interest on your behalf.
6. What documents do I need to provide with expression of interest?
You will need to provide proof of identity, income, and residency. This may include documents such as a driver's license, passport, and proof of income (e.g. your payslips, Centrelink Income statement).
7. How does NAHV calculate your rent?
The Market rent is established by an independent valuation. NAHV then applies a maximum rent set at 74.99% of market rent. You may be eligible for a NAHV rental subsidy which will reduce your rent to no more than 30% of household income plus 100% of the Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA). The rent charged is household-income based rent determined as:
• 30% of Gross Household Income, plus
• 15% of Family Tax Benefit A & B, (if applicable) plus
• Child Support Maintenance payment, (if applicable) plus
• Maximum Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA).
If you are receiving wages, your rent will be set at 30% of your gross household income, as determined by the payslips you provide us.
8. What is the allocations process for vacant Social Housing?
At NAHV we value matching the right resident with the right property. To achieve this, we take into account a person’s attributes and needs, their ability to successfully sustain a tenancy, the property we have on offer, and the broader community.
9. What other types of accommodation does National Affordable Housing Victoria provide?
NAHV provides long-term Independent Social Housing.
10. I don’t have the money for my first two weeks rent and bond, can NAHV help with funding?
Unfortunately, NAHV are unable to supply funding for the first two weeks rent and bond. We can direct you to organisations that may be able to provide this funding.
11. Will I have a car park?
Most of our buildings have limited car parking, and not each unit will come with a carpark. This means that parking availability can vary depending on the specific building and unit you are assigned to. If having a car park is essential for you, it's important to discuss this with the Housing Officer before finalising your Rental Agreement.
12. Are the utilities included in the fortnightly/weekly rent?
Utilities are not included in the rent. This means that residents are responsible for paying their own utility bills separately. These utilities typically include electricity, water, and internet services.
13. Am I allowed to have pets?
Yes, you are allowed to have pets, but there are some important guidelines to follow. Please discuss with your Housing Officer for further information.