Missiondale Social Housing

This development is motivated by people like Grace*

Grace first came to Missiondale in 2019, seeking support after many years of quietly struggling. Following a painful relationship breakdown, Grace found herself turning to alcohol as a way to cope. Over time, what began as a way to manage emotional pain became a barrier to the life she truly wanted—one filled with connection, purpose, and stability.

Living in social housing with her young adult children, Grace found herself increasingly overwhelmed, as the challenges she faced began to take a toll on both her wellbeing and her family. Over the next four years, she returned to Missiondale on several occasions. Each stay offered her a chance to heal and reflect, but limited access to rental support meant she couldn’t remain long enough to fully stabilise. Still, Grace remained hopeful.

In 2024, she returned to Missiondale with a renewed sense of determination. She recognised that to truly recover and move forward, she needed to make courageous changes—including letting go of her previous housing and the environments that had made it harder to stay well. Grace committed fully to the program, embracing the support and structure it offered.

After completing the program, Grace moved into “Futures”—a supportive, onsite community where graduates can continue their journey in a safe and supported environment. There, she began studying for a Certificate III in Community Services and volunteered her time to help others. With the guidance of her Case Worker, she applied for long-term housing through Housing Connect in a new region, hoping to continue building a stable and meaningful life.

When her twelve months at Futures came to an end, Grace had not yet secured social housing. She is now living in a women’s shelter—grateful for a safe place to stay and still pursuing her goals—but she deeply misses the sense of belonging and community she found at Missiondale.

*Grace’s name has been changed.

Grace’s story is one of strength, resilience, and the power of compassionate support. Her journey reminds us that recovery from addiction is not a straight path, and that safe, stable housing is a vital part of helping people rebuild their lives. With understanding and empathy, we can all play a part in creating a community where stories like Grace’s are met with hope and opportunity.

Sadly, Grace’s experience is not unique. Many people working hard to rebuild their lives face long waits and limited options when it comes to securing safe, stable housing. This new development is a step toward changing that—offering more opportunities for people to live in a supportive community environment, free from the influences that once held them back. It’s about creating space for hope, dignity, and a fresh start.

The development will provide a continuity of care for eligible Missiondale clients and others needing a safe and supported transition to social housing, because we know that:

The site is zoned Community Purpose, and the proposed use—Residential – Assisted Living—is a permitted use under current planning regulations.

Missiondale already has established transport arrangements, ensuring residents can access nearby retail, healthcare, and other essential services.

We’ve engaged directly with our immediate neighbour and have incorporated feedback into the design, including adjustments to colour schemes, screening, and fencing to ensure the development complements the surrounding area.

A copy of the Development Application can be found here (a full version will be available via the council website at a later date:

FAQs