Researchers are looking for LGBTIQA+ students and LGBTI seniors interested in taking part in a new project aimed at addressing housing challenges.
A ground-breaking new project aims to address housing insecurity faced by LGBTIQA+ students and social isolation and financial strain often encountered by LGBTI older people.
The Pride Housing Project is an intergenerational housing program led by GRAI (GLBTI Rights in Ageing Inc), in partnership with Edith Cowan University (ECU). It offers LGBTIQA+ students safe, welcoming housing with LGBTI older people who have spare rooms or flats.
GRAI Pride Housing Project Coordinator Rebecca Morris-Ferrari said the program aimed to foster intergenerational bonds by building community connections and addressing housing challenges unique to LGBTIQA+ people.
"This initiative not only focusses on practical housing needs but also champions a broader vision of inclusivity, acceptance, and mutual support across generations," she said.
"It offers affordable accommodation for students and companionship and support for older individuals, helping reduce feelings of isolation that can be prevalent in the older LGBTI community."
A collaborative approach to inclusive housing
Dr Lukasz Krzyzowski and Professor Loretta Baldassar from ECU's Social Ageing (SAGE) Futures Lab, and ECU Housing Advice Officer Lisa Gibb are active contributors to the project as members of the reference group. They are joined by representatives from other universities, the Department of Communities, Youth Pride Network, and Circle Green Community Legal who have been invaluable in highlighting tenancy legislation and safety considerations.
"This cross-organisational effort brings together expertise from various sectors to navigate the complex legalities of shared housing, promote the project, and ensure its success," Professor Baldassar said.
Dr Krzyzowski and Professor Baldassar will also play an essential role in evaluating the project's impact.
"Our research will explore The Pride Housing Project's ability to foster sustainable, positive intergenerational relationships and to explore new models of inclusive housing that could serve as a blueprint for other universities and communities," Dr Krzyzowski said.
Calling for people to be part of the project
ECU and GRAI are now aiming to raise awareness of the project and encourage participation among both older LGBTI individuals and LGBITQA+ students in need of housing.
"Students and older participants fill out a detailed questionnaire to ensure compatibility, matching individuals with similar values, lifestyles, and personalities," Dr Krzyzowski said.
"This thoughtful pairing process is designed to create a sense of community and safety, which can sometimes be lacking in traditional rental or shared housing options for the LGBTIQA+ community."
To assist with recruitment, ECU is promoting the Pride Housing Project on its Accommodation Listings webpage, inviting local homeowners to consider renting rooms to students, particularly those from the LGBTIQA+ community.
"If you are an LGBTI senior with a spare room, or an LGBTIQA+ student looking for housing, we encourage you to consider joining this innovative and supportive community-driven program," Professor Baldassar said.
For more information about the Pride Housing Project, visit www.grai.org.au or email pridehousing@grai.org.au.
