Process

Home Share Melbourne follows a rigorous process to ensure that people are safely matched with the right flatmate.
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Click here to see our process.

Fees

People who self-manage or plan manage their NDIS package may be able to use their existing plan to cover the costs. Others may be able to ask for a review to have the costs included in their plan.

Click here to see our price list.

​Area

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*Out of area matching between 30 and 60 minutes of the City of Port Phillip is provided at an additional cost.​

What is Homeshare?

Home sharing is when a person offers a private bedroom and shared common area in exchange for help around the house and companionship from a live-in flatmate. Every home sharing arrangement is unique, it depends on the needs, time, interests, and abilities of the people involved. It differs from a typical roommate situation because, at its core, it is about two people helping each other. Homesharing has been a successful way of building connection and community for over 40 years. It originated in America in the early 1970s and now operates in 17 countries. 

What is Home Share Melbourne

Home Share Melbourne thoughtfully matches people living with a disability (Householders) who have a spare bedroom with people looking for affordable housing (Homesharers.) The program has a number of benefits including supporting people with disabilities to stay living independently in their home, and from a wider society perspective, it increases the availability of housing.
The Homesharers pay no lodging fees and provide approximately 10 hours of support and companionship to the Householder. 

​What are the eligibility criteria?

Householders need to have secure tenure and be either renters or owners. Renters must have permission from the landlord. They must be over the age of 18 years old and have a minimum of one spare bedroom which is of a good condition. The Householder must be able to live relatively independently and not needing the Homesharer to provide personal care.
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Both parties need to be able to manage living in a shared environment and be committed to the values of homesharing which include reciprocity, respect and kindness.

​Benefits for Householders

​Benefits for Homesharers

How long is the commitment?

Home Share Melbourne asks that there is a minimum of 12 month commitment to the program. However, there is an understanding that people’s circumstances may change and that not all matches will work long term, so either party will be able to end the arrangement earlier if needed. 

​What support does Home Share Melbourne provide?

The Homeshare Coordinator provides professional, considered matching of Householders and homesharers following interviews, references, safety and police checks. Time will be taken to understand your preferences and expectations. And following this, suggestions may be made around potential matches. The Coordinator will then meet with you and the other person to see if it is a good fit. If it is, the Coordinator will support the process of completing a lodging agreement and arrange a move in date. The Coordinator will check in regularly during a one month trial period and will continue to be in touch throughout the first 12 months. The Coordinator can provide support around mediation and can make referrals to other services if needed. 

How long does it take?

Home Share Melbourne understands that people who contact the program may be looking to be matched very quickly. However, the process can take between two weeks to two months, sometimes longer, for the right flatmate to be found.

​Can Homesharers claim rental assistance?

If the Homesharer would otherwise be eligible they are able to claim rental assistance.

​What type of insurance do I need?

Insurance is different for each individual and therefore Home Share Melbourne encourages Householders and Homesharers to explore their options. 

What is the lodging agreement?

​The Home Share Melbourne lodging agreement outlines the individual arrangements. It highlights what the expectations are of both parties and relies on the good will of those involved. It asks for a 28 day notice period from either Householder and Homesharer following the month long trial period. 

​I have a pet, is that ok?

​Some Householders have a pet and if you do, you will be matched with someone who is happy to live with you and your fur baby. If you are a Homesharer and have a pet this may be okay in some arrangements.

​I am pregnant, have a child or partner, is that ok?

The program is aimed at single Householders and Homesharers, however, the program encourages potential participants to make contact regardless of their family type to discuss if there may be any options for them.

What if the arrangement doesn't work out?

​It is natural that some arrangements will not be the right fit. In these cases, the Homeshare Coordinator will actively working with both people to work through issues or concerns, or to move the Homesharer out of the home as soon as possible and look for alternative options. 

Is the arrangement a tenancy?

The Home Share agreement isn’t a tenancy as there is no rent being charged. 

​Is there a bond?

Some Householders may require a small bond.

Is it safe?

​Yes. Using a reputable homeshare program is the safest way to find a flatmate, rather than directly answering ads or making an Airbnb arrangement. Home Share Melbourne uses comprehensive assessment and screening processes. It also ensures that homes are well maintained and safe and provides ongoing support to the matches to ensure that all is well. Home Share Melbourne can also provide support to end the match if needed.