Supporting secure housing: Jim's story

The 73-year-old veteran had been struggling while renting privately in Ipswich, with rising rents placing growing pressure on his age pension leaving little room to manage day-to-day costs. 

“I could see I was heading for trouble,” Jim said. “I was anxious about money all the time. I dreaded every inspection and the letter that followed with a new price.”

Even with occasional traffic control work to bring in extra income, the pressure kept building. “I was eating into my savings. I was worried all the time.”

Jim’s circumstances began to change while volunteering with Meals on Wheels, where he met other seniors living in secure housing and realised he might be eligible for support as a veteran. As a teenager, Jim served in the Navy during the Vietnam War – something he never expected would make him eligible for help.

After researching his options, Jim contacted The Salvation Army and the RSL, who connected him with Community Housing Limited (CHL). CHL manages tenancies for 206 affordable homes being delivered in the Logan region with funding support through the Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF), in partnership with Together Housing, Tetris Capital, KDL Properties and Ryse Construction.

Now living in a newly built home in Jimboomba, Jim’ housing costs are more manageable, easing financial stress and providing a renewed sense of stability.

The impact has been immediate. “Money’s still tight, but it’s manageable,” he said. “I feel much more optimistic about the future.”

Jim now enjoys spending time at home with his cat Buddy, tending his garden by the creek and catching up regularly with his son who lives nearby.  

“Sometimes we’ll go out for lunch,” Jim said. “There’s a great Chinese place with a really good lunchtime special.”

For Jim, the stability has allowed him to finally settle, bringing a long‑awaited sense of belonging. 

“I feel reasonably well adjusted now,” he said. “I’m just chuffed. It’s great.”