Humelife
Discover free community events and activities
AGAINST THE ODDS
A young family make a safe start
HOPE BLOOMS
New transitional housing for older women
Welcome to our Summer issue
FROM HUME’S CEO BRAD BRAITHWAITE
I hope you enjoyed a safe, happy holiday season and wish you a Happy New Year. 2025 was a huge and very successful year for Hume Housing. I’m thrilled that we have over 180 plus new homes in the development pipeline so we can support more people access safe, secure and affordable housing. We also continued to support the 9,000 people who call Hume home.
My highlight for the year was our fabulous end of year celebrations in Maitland, Raymond Terrace and Western Sydney. We welcomed a record number of customers, and it was a delight to spend time with so many of you at these events.
Most heartwarming was the distribution of incredible hampers and gifts, generously donated by our staff and community, to bring some end of year magic and much welcome cost-ofliving relief.
The simple pleasure of sharing a meal and having the chance to talk with so many of you was special for me. Seeing the smiles on the faces of the kids who were gifted a brand-new bike was priceless. The Hume team had a lot of fun building the bikes and rest assured, each bike was tested by a quality control expert! The collage of photos on pages 20 captures some of the spirit and community customers enjoyed at these terrific celebrations.
This issue of Humelife features a wonderful customer story about a young family just starting out - we were able to help them secure an affordable rental and welcome them to one of our supportive communities.
Managing summer heat and fire safety precautions are front and centre for Hume. I urge you to be on the alert – you cannot afford to become complacent. We have already seen homes lost in built up residential
areas on the Central Coast – a timely reminder that fire risks are real and can happen anywhere.
I hope in 2026 you will join us to experience firsthand how we bring people together, make new friends and learn new skills or access supports. We have a list of upcoming Hume events in this issue so make sure to put them in your calendar!!
Enjoy Humelife and please share any feedback - we want Humelife to be a valuable read for everyone.
All the best for 2026.
Brad Braithwaite Chief Executive Officer
Unlocking housing solutions in the Hunter
Hume hosted an event at Maitland Town Hall at the end of last year to explore how we can unlock affordable housing solutions for the region. Over 120 stakeholders joined us to consider the challenge. With the region growing by six residents every day, we need bold, cost-effective, and fast-to-deliver solutions.
We were joined by leading public policy, housing and urban planning expert Tim Williams and the Mayor of Port Stephens Cr Leah Anderson to unpack the challenges and opportunities.
Hume have a new refuge for women and children escaping domestic violence in Port Stephens opening this year, along with new regional renewal projects in the pipeline. But there is so much more to do, and fortunately many committed stakeholders wanting to join us in making more developments happen!
Hope takes root with new safe housing for older women
GLENFIELD HOUSE IS A REVOLUTIONARY APPROACH TO TACKING HOUSING INSECURITY FOR OLDER WOMEN FACING HOMELESSNESS.
Hume was approached to work in partnership Women’s Community Shelters to manage temporary housing tenancies for older women at risk under an innovative project to transform an empty aged care facility in Glenfield into a place of safety, dignity.
For up to 18 months, the shelter will provide 28 rooms offering safety and stability to single women over 55 and Aboriginal women 45+. The shelter will offer community connections, friendship and support to assist women to rest, rebuild and rediscover their independence.
The disused age care home is owned by aged care provider Whiddon, who, rather than letting it sit idle chose to work with Women’s Community Shelters, Urban and Hume to repurpose the building as a women’s shelter.
The redevelopment was co-funded by the state governments Homelessness Innovation Fund, which provided $446,450, and was made possible by a change in the law that allows certain properties to be repurposed for meanwhile use housing without requiring a development application.
Each of the 28 rooms have been beautifully decorated into a welcoming haven with the support of online homewares company Temple & Webster.
Hume also sent a team along on set up day to help assist with assembling furniture and decorating the private rooms
THE PROGRAM OFFERS SAFE SECURE TEMPORARY HOUSING, AND HUME WORKS WITH THE NSW GOVERNMENT TO IDENTIFY PATHWAYS FOR PARTICIPATING WOMEN TO SECURE LONGER TERM STABLE HOUSING.
– together with Temple & Webster and Women’s Community Shelters staff and other corporate volunteers the once empty austere rooms were transformed into modern, contemporary self-contained sanctuaries.
The program offers safe secure temporary housing, and Hume works with the NSW Government to identify pathways for participating women to secure longer term stable housing.
Hume have a long-standing partnership with Women’s Community Shelters and currently have several projects underway including our new-build development in North Parramatta plus a Core & Cluster Domestic Violence refuge in the Southern Highlands. We are exceptionally proud to be involved in this critical work, if we are ever to see a reduction in domestic, family and sexual violence then we must continue to invest in safe and secure housing for women and children.
GLENFIELD HOUSE
Hume team members worked in partnership with Women’s Community Shelters, Whiddon, Urban and Temple & Webster to transform a former aged care home into a sanctuary for older women facing housing insecurity.
Mental Health Month celebrates creativity for wellbeing
Our Hume Mental Health Month Art Exhibition was an inspiring community initiative drawing together customers who contributed to a vibrant celebration of creativity, self-expression, and wellbeing under this year’s theme, “Taking Steps on Your Wellbeing Journey.”
Throughout October Hume hosted a range of art forums encouraging participants to use art to help express their personal journeys and experiences with mental health. We were pleased to receive such positive feedback from these sessions with one participant reaching out to say the time helped to promote healthy coping strategies through art, demonstrating the powerful connection between creativity and wellbeing.
Those involved were invited to enter their work into several exhibitions across Sydney and the Hunter where visitors could come along to view the artworks and further explore experiences through art. Thank you to everyone who joined in, and we look forward to another successful program in 2026.
Hume Housing Customer Recognition Awards
IN 2025 WE LAUNCHED OUR CUSTOMER RECOGNITION AWARDS, CELEBRATING ACHIEVEMENTS ACROSS THREE CATEGORIES:
• Most Improved (significant tenancy improvements and outcomes)
• Community Contribution (supports community activities and neighbours)
• Personal Achievement (completes studies, secures employment, achieves other personal goal).
This quarter we celebrated 12 winners across Sydney and the Hunter, acknowledging their achievement and hard work. These awards included a committed Maitland customer who established a community initiative where neighbours support each other with yard work and waste management. A Port Stephens customer secured the Most Improved Award having worked to improve tenancy skills. Our Sydney winners included one customer who not only secured employment but worked closely with Hume to better understand his tenancy obligations and improved property care, and a customer who overcame financial hardship, linking in with services to ensure long term outcomes. Congratulations to our award recipients this quarter.
New Telopea office launched and open for business
LATE LAST YEAR WE HOSTED AN EVENT TO MARK THE OPENING OF OUR NEW TELOPEA OFFICE. CEO BRAD BRAITHWAITE WAS JOINED BY AN ARMY OF HELPERS AND TELOPEA CUSTOMERS IN THE CO-LOCATED COMMUNITY SPACE.
Hume is a community anchor in the local Telopea community – where we manage three high-rise developments and support close to 200 customers.
The new office enables Telopea customers access to in-person support one day per week and is open to the public who may be interested in finding out more and applying for housing.
The launch event was also an opportunity for Hume to acknowledge customers, with our CEO presenting certificates celebrating a collection of colourful artworks proudly on show – the paintings were produced by customers and exhibited as part of Mental Health Month in October. Gardening activities, games and a delicious morning tea were also provided, and one customer arrived with a sitar to play music for the guests.
The Telopea office is located at Ground Floor 3 Shortland St and is open on Tuesdays 9-12pm. On Tuesday afternoons from 2pm -3.30pm the team will host regular community activities in the colocated community room, and all Telopea customers are welcome to join in. Further details on upcoming events will be posted in notice boards and Telopea office.
Hume in Bloom winners announced
DRUM ROLL PLEASE! WOW, WOW, WOW IS ALL WE COULD SAY WHEN JUDGING THE 2025 HUME IN BLOOM ENTRIES
We were greeted with a riot of vibrant colours and artful planting that made the competition very close. Overall, the high standard of entries was testament to the passion and skills of Hume’s gardeners. The Judging panel included representatives from our Sponsors Willowdene, Programmed, The Diggers Club and Community Greening (Sydney Royal Botanic Gardens) along with Hume representatives.
Louise from Casula
Winning a $250 Bunnings Voucher donated by Willowdene. OVERALL COMMUNITY GARDEN WINNERS (METRO)
1st Sunny from Telopea 2nd Nawal from Fairfield
This category is sponsored by Programmed.
1st Vanny from Liverpool
2nd Faafoi from Peakhurst
This category is sponsored by The Diggers Club. 1st Barbara from
Cumberland St Community Garden
Winning a $375 Bunnings Voucher
1st Pam from Telarah (pictured)
Shirley from East Maitland
This category is sponsored by Willowdene.
OVERALL COMMUNITY GARDEN WINNERS (REGIONAL)
George
Winning a $375 Bunnings Voucher donated by Willowdene.
1st Catrina from East Maitland (pictured) 2nd Catherine from Raymond Terrace
This category is sponsored by Programmed.
Congratulations to all our winners and thank you to all our sponsors! Hume in Bloom will be back next year so make sure to tend to those plants!!
A supported and affordable start
PETER & ELIZA’S JOURNEY
HOUSING AFFORDABILITY HAS NEVER BEEN MORE CHALLENGING, PARTICULARLY FOR LOW-INCOME FAMILIES BALANCING RENT WITH RISING LIVING COSTS.
For young couple Peter and Eliza, both in their early twenties, securing a rental in Sydney felt almost impossible. Having recently relocated from rural Queensland and living on an apprentice’s wage, they struggled to find a home within their budget.
Eliza, 20, explains that her husband Peter, 21, is nearing completion of his carpentry apprenticeship. “We first saw an ad for a Hume Housing rental in Western Sydney and knew nothing about community housing,” she said. The couple were initially hesitant to apply, worried about their lack of rental history after living with family prior to the move.
With apprentices earning less than two-thirds of the minimum wage, entering Sydney’s private rental market can be daunting. After inspecting a Hume Housing property they loved, the couple were encouraged to apply and soon learned they met the income eligibility criteria. Affordable housing provides eligible households with rent typically 20% below comparable market rates—an essential support for young workers and families.
The couple settled quickly into their new home and welcomed their first child 12 months later. As a new mother, Eliza initially felt unsure about connecting with neighbours, but soon found herself embraced by a warm and supportive community. Encouraged by Hume staff, she began attending Hume events, where she found connection, practical support, and friendship. During our visit, Eliza and her baby were surrounded by attentive neighbours and Hume team members alike. “I really feel welcome and supported here,”
she said. “If we weren’t in community housing, I don’t think we would have such a strong support network.”
With Peter soon qualify as a carpenter, the young parents are optimistic about the future. Australia’s housing construction boom has created strong demand for tradespeople, especially carpenters, meaning Peter’s income will soon increase—and the couple may no longer be eligible for affordable housing. “Hume has given us a foot in the door,” Eliza said. “Peter can finish his apprenticeship, and we were able to start a family—both things we thought were out of reach. When the time comes, we’ll be able to rent privately.”
Peter and Eliza value not just the affordability but also the ongoing support from Hume—whether it’s help with maintenance, access to community programs, or the social connection provided.
Their home’s location near a park, library and shops also provide opportunities to enjoy family time, like daily walks and library story-time.
Looking ahead, the couple hopes to grow their family and eventually home school their children, a tradition that both experienced themselves. Their long-term dream is to buy a home on land outside Sydney, raise livestock, and grow their own food.
If you would like to learn more about affordable housing and the eligibility criteria, you can visit Hume Housing’s website and take the eligibility quiz.
PETER CAN FINISH HIS APPRENTICESHIP, AND WE WERE ABLE TO START A FAMILY—BOTH THINGS WE THOUGHT WERE OUT OF REACH.
Are you or someone you know at risk of homelessness?
Please
SPECIALIST DISABILITY ACCOMMODATION
SPECIALIST DISABILITY ACCOMMODATION
Rental Properties now available Rental Properties now available
What is SDA?
Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) are properties that have been approved for some people funded under the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) to live in.
LIVERPOOL
A PLACE TO CALL HOME – FOUR ONE-BEDROOM SDA VILLAS
Rent: 25% of the Disability Support Pension
SDA: High Physical Support / Fully Accessible / Improved Liveability
Whole home available
Hume Community Housing is proud to offer modern, purpose-built SDA villas in the heart of Liverpool. Designed for NDIS participants with Improved Liveability, Fully Accessible, or High Physical Support needs, these villas provide independence, privacy, and high-quality accessible living. New residents are now living on site, and we have four more villas available.
Property features
• Ensuite bathroom
• Heating & cooling
• Pets allowed.
Support
• Bring your own support provider
• Tenants can choose and manage their own supports.
KELLYVILLE A WELCOMING HOME WITH 24-HOUR SUPPORT
Looking for a friendly, accessible, and supportive home in Sydney’s north-west? This modern fourbedroom, single-storey disability accommodation in Kellyville is 800m to Kellyville Village and you’ll be joining housemates (50s–70s) who enjoy outings, church, day programs and spending time together.
Property features
• Air-conditioning throughout
• Large, secure backyard with paved courtyard and BBQ – perfect for relaxing or socialising
• Bedroom offers built-in storage and split-system air-conditioning, providing year-round comfort
• Pets allowed.
Female applicants are preferred, but not essential.
Support
Provider: Northcott
• Support: 24-hour support including active overnight
• Tenants may bring their own core supports.
BLACKTOWN
FULLY ACCESSIBLE HOME WITH 24/7 SUPPORT
About the Property
This fully accessible single-storey, fivebedroom home in Blacktown offers comfortable supported living with two bathrooms, two spacious living areas, and central air-conditioning. The home includes two covered outdoor areas, perfect for relaxing or socialising, and features a range of accessibility upgrades for safe, easy everyday living. Current residents: Men and women aged 56–65 enjoy a social household. Our matching process includes tenant and guardian input to ensure a good fit.
Property features
• Central heating & cooling
• Outdoor entertainment areas
• Built-in wardrobes.
Support
Provider: Northcott
• Support: 24-hour support including active overnight
• Tenants may bring their own core supports.
KELLYVILLE
MODERN DISABILITY HOME WITH GREAT OUTDOOR AREA
Rent: 25% of the Disability Support Pension
SDA: Improved Liveability / Basic 1 Room Available
This modern, purpose-built fivebedroom disability home offers spacious living with two lounge rooms, two bathrooms, a separate toilet, and a small sensory room. The home is fully wheelchair accessible and designed for comfort, safety, and independence. Current residents: Men and women aged 46–65 enjoy a friendly, social home – a love of music, craft, gardening, BBQs, swimming, bowling, train rides, and community outings.
Property features
• Heating & cooling
• Ceiling hoist
• Outdoor entertaining area. Support
Provider: Northcott
• Support: 24-hour support
• Tenants may bring their own core supports
• No requirement for active overnight funding.
CONDELL PARK
WELCOMING & ACCESSIBLE SHARED HOME
Rent: 25% of the Disability Support
Pension
SDA: Improved Liveability / Basic 1 Room Available
This welcoming, single-storey fourbedroom accessible home offers plenty of space for comfort, privacy, and social connection. With modern features, shared living spaces, and a friendly household, this home is ideal for someone seeking both independence and a supportive community. Current residents: Men and women aged 46–65. Friendly, social home that enjoys spending time together and welcoming family and friends. Ideal for someone who likes an active, engaging environment.
Property features
• Heating & cooling
• Ceiling hoist
• Outdoor living area.
Support
• Provider: Northcott
• Support: 24-hour support
• Bring your own core supports if preferred
• No requirement for active overnight funding.
CAMDEN
GRASMERE – PEACEFUL & SPACIOUS HOME
Rent: 25% of the Disability Support
Pension
SDA: Improved Liveability / Basic 1 Room Available
Enjoy calm, semi-rural living in this spacious five-bedroom, single-storey home located in the leafy suburb of Grasmere. With open living areas, modern features, and beautiful surroundings, this home offers comfort, privacy, and a relaxed lifestyle. Current residents: Men aged 46–65, friendly, social environment with regular activities and family visits. Ideal for someone who enjoys a peaceful setting with opportunities to socialise.
Property features
• Heating & cooling
• Ensuite
• Outdoor living area
• Pets allowed.
Support
• Provider: Bridges Alliance
• Support: Onsite shared support
• Bring your own core supports if preferred
• No requirement for active overnight funding.
Community Noticeboard Community Noticeboard
HUME SOCIAL
Hume operates a community pantry and provides a free nutritious community lunch one day per week for our Telopea customers. If you are a Hume customer requiring assistance and live out of area you can contact Ash on ashleigh.hanshaw@humehousing.com.au who can assess for participation in Hume Social. Hume Social is located in the community room, ground level at 15 Sturt Street Telopea and operates on Thursdays from 12noon to 2pm. The dates for 2026 are:
Jan 8 - Mar 12
Apr 2 - Jun 11: Operational in holidays
Jul 2 - Sep 10: Operational in holidays
Sep 24 - Dec 10: Operational in holidays
TELOPEA TENANTS VOICE
10am Tuesday 10th February
Hosted in the courtyard / Community Room of 3 Shortland Street Telopea
We are pleased to re-introduce Telopea Tenants Voice as a response to customer need. All Hume Telopea customers are invited to attend.
Connecting through this forum provides open communication and consultation with key participants within the community.
This meeting will focus on sharing key community updates, discussion on upcoming community events, and to understand community needs for the coming months.
TELOPEA SENIORS SAFETY TALK
2:30pm Tuesday 3rd March
Hosted in the courtyard / Community Room of 3 Shortland Street Telopea
Hume are facilitating the opportunity for seniors in our community to hear directly from the members of the Local Area Command, on remaining safe in your community. Focus will be on crime prevention and reporting crime, scam safety, the Next of Kin nomination process as well as other important safety topics.
PREMIERS GALA CONCERT FOR SENIORS
Wednesday March 11.
The event is always a favourite, and we have limited tickets to join us on this full day excursion. Tickets are available for eligible customers (over 55s in the metro region). We will be contacting eligible customers in late January.
WARWICK FARM NEW STREET LIBRARY
Will launch in late January - early February. This is the first of what we hope will be many in other suburbs. If you live in a Hume apartment block in the Southwest and would love to see a street library in your block, please let us know.
CABRAMATTA COMMUNITY GARDEN
Local customers are welcome to join an event to celebrate the customers responsible for this vibrant local garden winning the Best Community Garden category in Hume in Bloom competition. The event is also an opportunity to showcase customers artwork in the new upgraded community room. To find out more please contact Jon on 0492 916 751 during business hours.
GARDENING WORKSHOPS
Hume will be hosting these popular workshops, again in collaboration with the Botanical Gardens in late January 2026. The sessions will be held at the Cabramatta room and will provide quarterly workshops designed to introduce customers to basic gardening skills, with an expert. Workshops are open to all Southwest customers and can contact Jon on 0492 916 751 during business hours or Hume Customer Service line on 1800 004 300 for more information and bookings.
BLOCK COMMUNITY GARDENS
In 2026 expect to hear about our commitment to building more beautiful Community Gardens in collaboration with the Botanical Gardens as well as more onsite workshops with residents at our current community gardens in Liverpool. If you live in a Hume apartment block in the Southwest and would love to see a community garden on your block, please let us know.
READY, STEADY, COOK!
Commencing on January 16th is the 2026 Nest program which we run in collaboration with OzHarvest. The program encourages participants to learn about health, affordable meals to address cost of living challenges. The program runs once a week for six weeks on a Friday and follows on from a very successful and keenly attended series in 2025. If you are a customer residing in Southwest and interested in finding out more, please call Jon on 0492 916 751 during business hours.
TENANTS’ VOICE MEETINGS
Will recommence in 2026 with an anticipated first meeting to be scheduled in mid-February. Expect guest speakers, specialist Hume staff and an opportunity to ask questions and give feedback. Stay tune for meeting details in Late January. A reminder to please ensure your contact details are correct and up to date. If you need to update you can call our friendly customer service team on 1800 004 300
WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU
If you live in the Southwest and have an idea for an activity or you would like to be contacted regarding any of these activities, please reach out to Jonathan Goodall at Jonathan.goodall@ humehousing.com.au
Community Noticeboard Community Noticeboard
CABRAMATTA
LUNAR NEW YEAR (FAMILY FESTIVAL)
Sat 28 Feb 2026
Free
11am-9pm Freedom Plaza, Dutton Lane, Park Rd and Arthur Streets Cabramatta
Celebrate at this family festival in Cabramatta with performances, markets and kids’ activities.
MAKE-A-LANTERN WORKSHOP
Parramatta Library (kids 5–12)
Sun 15 Feb 2026 | 12:00–1:00pm
Hands-on workshop (Lunar New Year themed). Free, bookings usually required. Visit City of Parramatta website.
ENGLISH CONVERSATION CLASS
Parramatta Library (adults / older people / migrants) — Every Tuesday during school term. Visit City of Parramatta website for dates
Free weekly class to build spoken English confidence — great for singles, older adults and new residents.
MOST BLESSED NIGHTS
Macquarie Mall Street Food Market (family-friendly evenings) — weekend series across Feb–Mar 2026
Night market weekends (Ramadan/food market) with cultural food stalls and free entry — family friendly and social for singles. Check Liverpool event pages for exact weekends. neonmarketplace.nsw.gov.au
SENIORS ACTIVITY HUBS
WEEKLY ONGOING
East Maitland Seniors Hub
(9.30 – 12.30 Tuesday weekly)
@ 77 George St Common Room, East Maitland. Gentle Exercise, Morning Tea, Art’s, Crafts and Games, Community Garden. All over 55’s Welcome. $5 a month.
Rutherford Seniors Hub
(10.30 – 12.30 Wednesday weekly)
@ 19-21 Alexandra Av Common Room, Rutherford. Gentle Exercise, Morning Tea, Art’s, Crafts and Games. All over 55’s Welcome. $5 a month.
REGIONAL
Raymond Terrace Seniors Hub
(9.30 – 12.30 Thursday weekly)
@ 5 Wahroonga St Common Room, Raymond Terrace. Gentle Exercise, Morning Tea, Art’s, Crafts and Games. All over 55’s Welcome. $5 a month.
CREATIVE ART SESSIONS
10am – 12pm Second Thursday of each month @ 19-21 Alexandra Av Common Room, Rutherford.
Free open art sessions with a qualified art therapist. All ages and abilities welcome. Starting 12 Feb and following on in response to requests our customers and the success of our Regional Mental Health Month Art Exhibition last October. Contact Customer Service team for more information.
MONEY EXTRA MINI EXPO
Providing direct access to services, financial supports and opportunities to engage with programs that lead to improved financial outcomes and secure tenancies. Date and venue to be confirmed – most likely in March or April. Contact Customer Service team for more information.
RUTHERFORD COMMUNITY GARDEN
9- 10.30am First Tuesday of each month @ 19-21 Alexandra Av, Rutherford.
All welcome to join in or just to have a chat and a cuppa. Run with the assistance of Slow Food Hunter Valley volunteers.
MAITLAND PLACEMAKERS
Meet monthly (Last Thursday of each month)
Our ‘Placemakers’ are a growing group of customers aged 20-45 (often underrepresented), from different suburbs, positive in their outlook, solutions focused and community minded. The group has grown out of the concept of placemaking, which in the context of housing is a hot topic. The group is open to new members who are selected by current members and staff. Please contact Richard on 0491 691 977 or write to richard.hershman@humehousing. com.au to learn more.
MAITLAND COMMUNITY DRUG ACTION TEAM
Drugsafe Workshops for 13–24-year-olds
Alcohol and other drugs education delivered in a factual, nonjudgmental way. Workshops are free and delivered throughout the year. Lunch provided and certificate awarded on completion. Dates TBC. Contact Richard 0491 691 977 for more information.
RENT
IT
KEEP IT SESSIONS
A very popular free program designed to assist customers and interested members of the public learn about tenants’ rights and responsibilities. Designed to assist people with no rental history or having had previous issues in maintaining a tenancy learn how to be a good tenant with the goal of securing a rental. Conducted over 4 days the program includes guest speakers, free lunch and a certificate on completion. Dates to be announced. You can make enquiries and indicate your interest by calling our Customer Service team.
WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU
If you live in the Hunter and have an idea for an activity or you would like to be contacted regarding any of these activities, please reach out to Richard Hershamn at Richard.hershman@ humehouisng.com.au
Community Noticeboard
REGIONAL
MAITLAND SUMMER HOLIDAY EVENTS
Council-run summer holiday activities.
Early Mid Jan 2026 (school holidays. Many are free.
See Maitland “What’s On” calendar. My Maitland.
SATURDAY LEGO DAYS
Visit Port Stephens Councils website - Libraries/ Families page.
Library School Holiday Programs: Port Stephens Council libraries, such as the Raymond Terrace Library, frequently host LEGO-themed activities as part of their school holiday schedules, including LEGO mosaic creation.
STORYTIME & CRAFT FREE (PORT STEPHENS LIBRARIES)
For ages 2–5 at Tomaree & Raymond Terrace. Held weekly during school term visit Port Stephens Libraries children & family programs page.
AN ECO-FRIENDLY REGION
EcoNetwork Port Stephens from February 2026 volunteer bush-care / coastal clean-ups & nature events. Visit website. EcoNetwork Port Stephens.
Summer Fire and Heat Safety Tips
SUMMER HAS ALREADY DELIVERED FIRES AND DESTRUCTION ACROSS NSW. IT’S IMPORTANT YOU STAY AWARE OF FIRE RISKS AND HAVE A PLAN IN PLACE:
• Fire alarms save lives Hume checks fire alarms annually and changes batteries. If you suspect your alarms are not working call us immediately and we will schedule a visit to check and rectify
• Have a home fire escape plan and practise it with everyone in your household – especially children
• Keep heaters clear – maintain at least 1 metre distance from curtains, furniture and clothes
• Never leave cooking unattended, particularly when frying. Most house fires start in the kitchen
• Use power boards safely – don’t overload them and avoid double adaptors
• Don’t charge lithium batteries inside your home (for e-bikes, e-scooters and toys) Wherever possible charge outside and never leave unattended
• Never leave lit candles unattended. Keep away from children and curtains and soft furnishings
• Extinguish cigarettes completely and never smoke in bed or when tired
• Keep exits clear so you can leave quickly in an emergency
• Prepare for bushfire season by clearing gutters, trimming vegetation and knowing your local fire danger ratings.
Make sure to also stay cool this summer! With more heatwaves expected this year, stay cool by following these simple tips:
• Stay inside during the hottest part of the day
• At home, close your curtains and use fans or air conditioning
• Do your housework or exercise early in the morning when it’s cooler
• Drink lots of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty
• Check in on family and friends.
If you need medical advice and your usual doctor isn’t available, you can call Healthdirect anytime day or night, for free, on 1800 022 222 and get the help you need.
FOR MORE TIPS ON STAYING COOL Visit: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au
End Of Year Celebrations
FROM YOUNG TO OLD WE WELCOMED CUSTOMERS TO ENJOY END OF YEAR CELEBRATIONS
These included 25 of our regular Seniors Hub members who lunched at The Windsor Castle Hotel in East Maitland. Thanks, to Catholic Healthcare and Rotary Clubs who organised gift bags to take away. Also, thanks to our H&I Maitland Team distributed 215 mini-Christmas cakes and bon bons to customers who live alone in unit complexes, funded this year through the NSW Government Local Small Commitments Allocation.
to the Hume teams across metropolitan and regional locations who helped make these events so memorable!
FAIRFIELD MAITLAND
RAYMOND TERRACE
Budgeting to stay on track in 2026
THE HOLIDAYS SEASON MAY BE OVER, BUT YOU MAY BE STRUGGLING WITH MAKING ENDS MEET OR PAYING OFF CREDIT CARDS AND PAY DAY DEALS FOLLOWING FESTIVE OVER-SPENDING
Don’t hide from your financial obligations as it may only make matters worse. If budgeting is causing you stress and you are worried how to meet your payments – read on.
Managing Rental Arrears
Paying rent is the most important bill you need to meet because keeping a roof over your head impacts every other aspect of your life. At Hume our goal is to support customers to sustain successful tenancies. When money is tight, we know it can feel stressful trying to juggle rent, weekly groceries, power bills and everyday costs.
A simple budget can help. A budget doesn’t mean going without — but lets you see where your money goes and how to plan.
Budgeting can help you:
• Make sure rent and essential bills like power and water are paid first
• Avoid falling behind and building up arrears
• Plan for bigger or unexpected bills
• Reduce stress and feel more in control
• Get help early if you’re struggling.
There is also free financial help from experts who will guide you through all aspects of your debts and how you can consolidate them and pay them off in a manageable way.
All services listed are free, confidential and experienced in supporting people in social and affordable housing.
(SYDNEY & HUNTER REGION)
National Debt Helpline (NSW Wide)
Phone: 1800 007 007
Website: www.ndh.org.au
Hours: Monday–Friday (extended hours available)
• Free financial counselling by phone or live chat
• Help with rent arrears, bills, debts and budgeting
• Support negotiating payment plans with landlords and utility providers.
Financial Counselling (NSW)
Website: www.moneysmart.gov.au/financial-counselling
• Free government-funded financial counselling
• Helps with budgeting, managing bills and accessing concessions
• Can connect you with a local counsellor in your area.
SYDNEY SERVICES
Metro Assist – Financial Counselling
Phone: (02) 9569 1777
Website: www.metroassist.org.au
Location: Inner West & Greater Sydney
• Free help with rent stress, utility bills and debt
• Advocacy with creditors and service providers
• Support for individuals and families. The Salvation Army – Moneycare (Sydney)
Phone: 1800 722 363
Website: www.salvationarmy.org.au/moneycare
• Free and confidential financial counselling
• Help with budgeting, debt and rent difficulties
• Appointments available across Sydney.
Wesley Mission – Financial Counselling (Hunter)
Phone: (02) 4014 6500
Website: www.wesleymission.org.au
• Free financial counselling in Newcastle and the Lower Hunter
• Help with rent arrears, utility bills and debt
• Support negotiating payment plans.
Phone: 1300 023 443
Website: www.samaritans.org.au
Location:
•
• Support for people experiencing housing or financial stress
• Referrals to other local support services.
MoneySmart
CUSTOMER SPOTLIGHT:
Celebrating Youseff - a graduation and a stable home
TOGETHER HOME WAS A LIFE-CHANGING PROGRAM LAUNCHED BY HOMES NSW DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC.
The $189m investment ran from 2020 to 2024, aiming to address longterm homelessness. More than 1,000 people street sleeping, or with a history of it, were given two years to access housing and wraparound support. Hume Housing proudly supported customers through three tranches of the program. Our impressive success rate proved homelessness is solvable.
Youssef was one of the final participants and we were concerned he might not complete the program. But, with his dad’s incredible support and the Hume Housing Foundations team’s commitment, Youssef showed everyone what hope and hard work can create.
Youssef grew up in Sydney’s west with an undiagnosed intellectual disability and had an ongoing problem with drug use. He trusted people who took advantage of his vulnerability and was repeatedly around violence – often as the victim. When Youssef was in his mid-20s, his dad had to put the safety of Youssef’s younger siblings first and make the difficult decision to ask Youssef to leave the family home. Even as he drifted between couch surfing and sleeping rough, Youssef’s dad was there for him, no matter what.
When Youssef entered Hume Housing’s Together Home program in mid-2022, he was at a low point. He was disengaged and struggling with thoughts of suicide. Unfortunately, the situation did not improve. Youssef eventually breached his tenancy and was asked to leave. Determined not to abandon him, Hume Housing entered Youssef into our temporary accommodation program. We worked closely with his father to monitor Youssef’s safety.
Not long after, Youssef moved to regional NSW with a new girlfriend who was later suspected of coercive control and domestic violence towards him. Even while out of the area, Hume Housing stayed connected, liaising with local health services to keep him safe.
A dangerous psychotic episode saw Youssef arrested and given four months in prison. There, he was heavily medicated, detoxed from drugs and made stable. It was a turning point in Youssef’s life. After his release, he asked his father to take him home – he was ready to lean into the support on offer. Hume Housing arranged assessments which confirmed intellectual disability. We then helped Youssef get onto the NDIS to support his daily living needs. He entered rehab and has been drug-free for 12+ months.
Youssef graduated from Together Home in 2025 and is different from when we first met. With carer support, he enjoys swimming, going to the gym, and family time. He has moved into his own property in Villawood and is slowly getting used to independent living, with help from his dad who sleeps over a few nights each week. Facing many challenges, Youssef chose the harder road. He has been rewarded with a much more settled and happy life.
Hume Housing operates on Housing First principles –
housing and support are separate and not dependent on each other. Even after Youssef’s tenancy with us was over, we knew he still needed us. The Housing Foundations team worked alongside Youssef to help him find and settle into his new home, stay on track and be more independent. Our commitment to both Youssef and his dad reflects our core belief that everyone has the right to a home, and that flexible ongoing support is essential to sustaining long-term housing and wellbeing.
Budget
recipes for Summer
When you are keeping an eye on your budget, it’s good to know you can eat cheaply without sacrificing nutrition and flavour. Our cheap and easy recipes will have you whipping them up in a flash.
Homemade Sausage rolls
A TASTY SAUSAGE ROLLS RECIPE THAT ARE THE PERFECT BALANCE OF CRISPY ON THE OUTSIDE AND JUICY ON THE INSIDE.
1
Ingredients
4 sheets ready rolled puff pastry
1 tbsp milk
1 egg
1kg mince (pork, beef or a mix of both)
1 medium onion, finely chopped
1 medium carrot, coarsely grated
3 cloves garlic, crushed
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh flatleaf parsley
1 1/2 tbsp tomato sauce
1/4 cup (60ml) Worcestershire sauce
2
Preheat oven to 220C/200C fan forced. Line 2 large baking trays with baking paper. Thaw pastry.
Combine milk and egg in a small jug. Whisk well. Combine veal mince, mince sausage, onion, carrot, garlic, parsley, tomato sauce and Worcestershire sauce in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper. Divide mixture into 8.
3 Lay a sheet of pastry on a flat surface. Cut the sheet half horizontally. Spoon 1/8 of the mince mixture down along the long side of one pastry half, shaping mince into a long sausage shape. Brush the opposite long edge with a little egg mixture.
Chocolate and Candy
Cane Crush cookies
1
Ingredients
250g butter, softened
3/4 cup (165g) caster sugar
3/4 cup (165g) brown sugar
1 tsp peppermint essence
1 egg
2 cups (300g) plain flour
1/4 cup (25g) cocoa powder
1 tsp bicarbonate of soda
250g pkt dark choc chips
375g pkt white chocolate melts
3 peppermint candy canes, crushed
2
3
Preheat oven to 180°C. Line 2 baking trays with baking paper. Use an electric mixer to beat the butter, caster sugar, brown sugar, peppermint essence and egg in a bowl until light and fluffy.
Add flour, cocoa powder and bicarbonate of soda, in 2 batches, stirring after each addition. Stir in choc chips. Roll tablespoonfuls of the dough into balls.
Place half the balls on lined trays, 5cm apart. Bake for 12 mins or until just firm. Set aside on trays to cool. Repeat with the remaining cookie dough balls.
4
Make a well in the centre. Add 1 cup of the milk. Mix with a flat-bladed knife until it forms a soft dough, adding more milk if required. Turn onto a lightly floured surface. Knead gently until smooth (do not knead too much or scones will be tough).
4
Roll up pastry to enclose filling, finishing seam side down. Brush top of log with egg mixture.
Cut into 6 short pieces. Place pieces, seam side down on prepared tray, 2cm apart. Repeat with remaining mince mixture, pastry and egg wash.
5
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden and cooked through.
5 Place white chocolate in a medium heatproof bowl over a saucepan of simmering water (make sure the bowl doesn’t touch the water). Stir until the chocolate melts and is smooth.
6 Line a baking tray with baking paper. Dip one-half of each cookie in the chocolate and transfer to the lined baking tray. Sprinkle with the crushed candy canes. Set the cookies aside for 20 mins or until set.
Credit: Peak aussie cuisine
DIRECTIONS
Find and circle the vocabulary words in the grid. Look for them in all directions including backwards and diagonally.
COLOUR
Summer fun
IN HAPPY SUMMER
Compliments, complaints and appeals
CONTACT HUME TO PROVIDE A COMPLIMENT, COMPLAINT OR APPEAL, YOU CAN FIND A FORM ON OUR WEBSITE.
FEEDBACK TAKES DIFFERENT FORMS:
COMPLIMENTS
• We appreciate hearing from you about the good service, experiences and overall satisfaction with Hume. Knowing what we are doing well helps us keep doing more of the same.
CONTACT US
COMPLAINTS
• An expression of dissatisfaction with the standard or type of service we have provided.
General enquiries: 1800 004 300
General email: hume@humehousing.com.au
Repairs email: repairs@humehousing.com.au
APPEALS
• A request to have an official decision reviewed as you don’t agree with the outcome
• If you still don’t agree with the outcome of an appeal, you can contact the Housing Appeals Committee on 1800 629 974 and they will conduct an independent review.
• If you are experiencing problems with your neighbours or their visitors, it is not recorded as a complaint
• Your Neighbourhood Officer will manage these reports and keep you updated on a regular basis.
Website: www.humehousing.com.au
Please like Hume Community Housing on Facebook to receive updates. ABN: 66 647 041 988
Offices PLEASE BOOK AN APPOINTMENT BEFORE ATTENDING ANY HUME OFFICES
7 Hamilton Road Cabrogal Country Fairfield NSW 2165 464 High Street Wonnarua Country Maitland NSW 2320
There’s now even more ways to contact us:
46 William Street Worimi Country Raymond Terrace NSW 2324 Ground Floor, 3 Shortland Street Wallamettagul Country Telopea NSW 2117