2023-2024
Annual Report Summary
A year of impact
2023-2024
2023-2024
Annual Report Summary
A year of impact
- Introduction
Be welcomed,
always
Commitment to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples
Beyond Housing recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Owners and ongoing Custodians of the land and water upon which we live and rely.
We will provide culturally safe services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and are committed to two-way learning to better understand causes, impacts and appropriate responses to homelessness in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Beyond Housing is committed to embracing diversity and promotes an inclusive culture across our organisation.
We recognise that providing equality of opportunity builds both social cohesion and organisational integrity.
We are committed to ensuring that all people have equitable access to our services and our workplace.
We value the lived experience of people from diverse backgrounds, including gender identity, age, ethnicity, cultural background, disability, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, carer responsibilities and/or professional background.
- Introduction
Be welcomed,
always
Vision
Home. Not Homeless.
Purpose
Ending homelessness
Values
Advocacy, fairness, innovation, quality, collaboration
- Our Strategy
Our Clients
Goal
Increased quality services
Strategies
- Improve outcomes for Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander peoples - Expand crisis accommodation
- Advocate for the rights and needs of our clients
- Share the success stories and
challenges faced by our clients
Our People
Goal
Agile and enabled culture
Strategies
- Prioritise health and safety, always
ensuring team satisfaction - Roll out a comprehensive reward
and recognition program - Encourage demographic diversity within our team
- Cultivate an environment that promotes
engagement and high performance
Our Homes
Goal
Innovative living solutions
Strategies
- Grow our housing portfolio to provide
more homes to those in need - Discover and implement creative housing solutions suitable for diverse needs
- Prioritise and amplify our environmental stewardship
- Actively measure and take steps to
reduce our carbon footprint
Our Business
Goal
Financial sustainability
Strategies
- Enhance philanthropic endeavours and
identify new avenues for revenue - Develop a robust funding strategy that
ensures long-term operations - Implement smart systems for integrated data management and comprehensive reporting
- Streamline processes to enhance
operational efficiencies
- Our Strategy
Our Homes
Goal
Innovative living solutions
Strategies
- Grow our housing portfolio to provide
more homes to those in need - Discover and implement creative housing solutions suitable for diverse needs
- Prioritise and amplify our environmental stewardship
- Actively measure and take steps to
reduce our carbon footprint
Our Clients
Goal
Increased quality services
Strategies
- Improve outcomes for Aboriginal and
Torres Strait Islander peoples - Expand crisis accommodation
- Advocate for the rights and needs of our clients
- Share the success stories and
challenges faced by our clients
Our Business
Goal
Financial sustainability
Strategies
- Enhance philanthropic endeavours and
identify new avenues for revenue - Develop a robust funding strategy that
ensures long-term operations - Implement smart systems for integrated data management and comprehensive reporting
- Streamline processes to enhance
operational efficiencies
Our People
Goal
Agile and enabled culture
Strategies
- Prioritise health and safety, always
ensuring team satisfaction - Roll out a comprehensive reward
and recognition program - Encourage demographic diversity within our team
- Cultivate an environment that promotes
engagement and high performance
- Our Business
Chair & CEO
Report
Beyond Housing continued to address homelessness and housing insecurity, guided by the pillars of Our Clients, Our Homes, Our People, and Our Business. Collaboration, innovation, and a focus on strong partnerships underpinned the organisation’s efforts to ensure everyone has a safe and secure place to call home.
Celia Adams
CEO
Ben Ruscoe
Chair
A key highlight was the Regional Supportive Housing Program announcement in Shepparton, the first Housing First initiative in regional Victoria. This project will provide permanent housing with wraparound support to help people experiencing chronic homelessness rebuild their lives.
Meanwhile, the $15.7 million Education First Youth Foyer in Wodonga is set to open ahead of schedule in February 2025, providing 40 young people with a stable home and the support needed to pursue education and independence.
A key highlight was the Regional Supportive Housing Program announcement in Shepparton, the first Housing First initiative in regional Victoria. This project will provide permanent housing with wraparound support to help people experiencing chronic homelessness rebuild their lives.
Meanwhile, the $15.7 million Education First Youth Foyer in Wodonga is set to open ahead of schedule in February 2025, providing 40 young people with a stable home and the support needed to pursue education and independence.
The close collaboration and trust between the Board and Executive Team have been essential in aligning decisions with Beyond Housing’s Vision, Purpose, and Values. The Executive Team has ensured that all housing projects and support programs progress with due diligence and care by delivering well-researched recommendations. Their ability to assess risks, provide strategic guidance, and maintain financial sustainability has been vital to the organisation’s growth, reinforcing its position as a trusted leader in the community housing sector.
The close collaboration and trust between the Board and Executive Team have been essential in aligning decisions with Beyond Housing’s Vision, Purpose, and Values. The Executive Team has ensured that all housing projects and support programs progress with due diligence and care by delivering well-researched recommendations. Their ability to assess risks, provide strategic guidance, and maintain financial sustainability has been vital to the organisation’s growth, reinforcing its position as a trusted leader in the community housing sector.
Looking ahead, Beyond Housing is excited to begin work on its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan and to introduce Environmental, Social, and Governance reporting next year. These initiatives will strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and improve how the organisation measures and communicates its social and environmental impact.
With over 300 homes set to be delivered by 2026, Beyond Housing remains committed to providing innovative housing solutions that create lasting change.
300 homes
are on track to be delivered by 2026
300 homes
are on track to be delivered by 2026
Looking ahead, Beyond Housing is excited to begin work on its Reflect Reconciliation Action Plan and to introduce Environmental, Social, and Governance reporting next year. These initiatives will strengthen relationships with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and improve how the organisation measures and communicates its social and environmental impact.
With over 300 homes set to be delivered by 2026, Beyond Housing remains committed to providing innovative housing solutions that create lasting change.
- Our Business
Our Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors (from left) John Gibbons, Kirsten Seeto, Michael Gomez, Ben Ruscoe, Carly Martin, Neil Funston, Skye Roberts, and Lisa Ryan.
- Our Business
Financial
growth and sustainability
In 2023-2024, Beyond Housing experienced strong financial growth, further securing our ability to deliver on our long-term objectives.
This growth has been supported by a healthy mix of government funding, rental income, and philanthropic support.
Our equity grew from
$100M to
$118M
Our revenue increased to over
$43M
- Our Clients
2,949
people experiencing,
or at risk of homelessness
1,211
new clients
597
people were
sleeping rough
579
young people
(17 -25 years)
413
people aged
over 55 years
499
people on a disability
support pension
2,949
people experiencing,
or at risk of homelessness
1,211
new clients
597
people were
sleeping rough
579
young people
(17 -25 years)
413
people aged
over 55 years
499
people on a disability
support pension
Supporting Flood Recovery
Through a combination of our own housing stock, public housing, and the private rental market, we secured housing solutions through 66 State Government-funded Flood Recovery packages. These packages also helped cover essential costs and provide the resources needed for people to rebuild their lives.
State Government
funded packages
funded packages
0
Supporting Flood Recovery
Through a combination of our own housing stock, public housing, and the private rental market, we secured housing solutions through 66 State Government-funded Flood Recovery packages. These packages also helped cover essential costs and provide the resources needed for people to rebuild their lives.
State Government funded packages
0
- Our Clients
57%
female
172
children
1,239
citing mental health issues
At Beyond Housing, we know that every statistic represents a person, a family, and a story. The individuals we support remind us every day of the importance of secure, affordable housing and its transformational power in people’s lives.
Safe, secure, space reduces stress
Evonne*, a 50-year-old full-time carer for her now former partner, Geoff*, found themselves living in inadequate and overcrowded conditions after the devastating 2022 floods in Shepparton destroyed her home. With eight people living in a small, three-bedroom house, privacy was non-existent, and the stress of managing her caregiving responsibilities in such difficult conditions was overwhelming. When Evonne and Geoff were offered a two-bedroom Beyond Housing apartment, she said it felt “like a lifeline”. The new home not only provided her with the space and privacy she needed, but also significantly reduced her rent costs, helping her manage her finances more effectively during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Living in a secure, affordable home has transformed Evonne and Geoff’s quality of life.
*Names have been changed.
For more stories
Evonne*, a 50-year-old full-time carer for her now former partner, Geoff*, found themselves living in inadequate and overcrowded conditions after the devastating 2022 floods in Shepparton destroyed her home. With eight people living in a small, three-bedroom house, privacy was non-existent, and the stress of managing her caregiving responsibilities in such difficult conditions was overwhelming. When Evonne and Geoff were offered a two-bedroom Beyond Housing apartment, she said it felt “like a lifeline”. The new home not only provided her with the space and privacy she needed, but also significantly reduced her rent costs, helping her manage her finances more effectively during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. Living in a secure, affordable home has transformed Evonne and Geoff’s quality of life.
*Names have been changed.
For more stories
Safe, secure, space reduces stress
In 2023-2024, Beyond Housing’s Initial Assessment and Planning (IAP) team assisted nearly 3,000 people experiencing housing insecurity or homelessness, including 1,211 individuals accessing our services for the first time.
348
Victim survivors reported family violence
42%
Reported poor mental health
1 in 8
Seeking support were aged 55 and over
Focus on the future
Gary*, a 53-year-old former factory manager, and his 14-year-old son Remy*, had been caught in the uncertainty of the private rental market, moving frequently and struggling to find a stable home. For Remy, who has autism, this constant change made it challenging to maintain the routine and security he needed. Everything changed when they moved into their new Beyond Housing home in Wangaratta last September. Remy now has the stability he needs to thrive at school and Gary has found a sense of community, building strong connections with their neighbours. For them, this home isn’t just a place to live—it’s a foundation for rebuilding their lives with confidence and security.
* Names changed for privacy reasons.
Focus on the future
Gary*, a 53-year-old former factory manager, and his 14-year-old son Remy*, had been caught in the uncertainty of the private rental market, moving frequently and struggling to find a stable home. For Remy, who has autism, this constant change made it challenging to maintain the routine and security he needed. Everything changed when they moved into their new Beyond Housing home in Wangaratta last September. Remy now has the stability he needs to thrive at school and Gary has found a sense of community, building strong connections with their neighbours. For them, this home isn’t just a place to live—it’s a foundation for rebuilding their lives with confidence and security.
* Names changed for privacy reasons.
- Our Homes
Accelerating housing solutions
Our projects do more than just provide housing—they stimulate economic growth. According to the Australian Government’s 2020 report, “Building Jobs: How Residential Construction Drives the Economy,” every $1 million spent on residential building construction generates approximately $2.9 million in economic activity, benefiting local industries and consumer spending.
Averaging
1 new home
every 5 days
70
new homes constructed in the 2024 financial year
70
new homes constructed in the 2024 financial year
- Our Homes
Accelerating housing solutions
Averaging 1 new home every 5 days
Our projects do more than just provide housing—they stimulate economic growth. According to the Australian Government’s 2020 report, “Building Jobs: How Residential Construction Drives the Economy,” every $1 million spent on residential building construction generates approximately $2.9 million in economic activity, benefiting local industries and consumer spending.
But beyond job creation, it’s the social impact of our projects that truly makes a difference. One of our proudest accomplishments this year is the progress on the Wodonga Education First Youth Foyer, a $15.7 million development that will provide 40 self-contained studios for young people at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness, as well as those transitioning out of home care.
But beyond job creation, it’s the social impact of our projects that truly makes a difference. One of our proudest accomplishments this year is the progress on the Wodonga Education First Youth Foyer, a $15.7 million development that will provide 40 self-contained studios for young people at risk of, or experiencing, homelessness, as well as those transitioning out of home care.
Wodonga Youth Foyer
Set to open in February 2025—five months ahead of schedule—the Foyer is based on the proven Education First Youth Foyer model pioneered by the Brotherhood of St Laurence. This model integrates housing and education, offering not only accommodation but also access to education, training, employment, and wraparound supports for young people aged 16-24.
40
self-contained
studios
Wodonga Youth Foyer
40
self-contained
studios
Set to open in February 2025—five months ahead of schedule—the Foyer is based on the proven Education First Youth Foyer model pioneered by the Brotherhood of St Laurence. This model integrates housing and education, offering not only accommodation but also access to education, training, employment, and wraparound supports for young people aged 16-24.
$15.7M
investment
Funded by
the Victorian Government’s $50M Youth Capital Grants program
Shepparton
- 15-unit development
- Regional Supportive Housing Program
- First Housing First initiative for regional Victoria
- Support people experiencing chronic homelessness
- Funded by Homes Victoria
Wangaratta
Another important project in our pipeline is the newly approved development for Wangaratta.
- 10 homes set to be completed in 2026
- $3.5M project, designed by Austin Cafra Austin Architects
investment
$
0
M
Funded by
the Victorian Government’s $50M Youth Capital Grants program
Shepparton
- 15-unit development
- Regional Supportive Housing Program
- First Housing First initiative for regional Victoria
- Support people experiencing chronic homelessness
- Funded by Homes Victoria
Wangaratta
Another important project in our pipeline is the newly approved development for Wangaratta.
- 10 homes set to be completed in 2026
- $3.5M project, designed by Austin Cafra Austin Architects
- Our Homes
Pioneering new approaches
Next year Beyond Housing will partner with Shepparton-based JMB Modular Buildings to construct five one-bedroom units in Glenrowan using modular building techniques. Modular construction represents a significant shift from traditional building methods, allowing us to reduce construction timelines by 50%.
Innovation remains central to Beyond Housing’s vision to end homelessness. This year, we proudly partnered with The University of Melbourne’s School of Design, engaging architecture students in a final-year studio focused on developing social housing solutions for Shepparton. Their fresh ideas and creative designs demonstrated the power of collaboration between education and community housing providers, offering new perspectives on how we can address housing shortages.
Modular building
50%
reduction in construction timelines
Modular
building
50%
reduction in construction timelines
Next year Beyond Housing will partner with Shepparton-based JMB Modular Buildings to construct five one-bedroom units in Glenrowan using modular building techniques. Modular construction represents a significant shift from traditional building methods, allowing us to reduce construction timelines by 50%.
Innovation remains central to Beyond Housing’s vision to end homelessness. This year, we proudly partnered with The University of Melbourne’s School of Design, engaging architecture students in a final-year studio focused on developing social housing solutions for Shepparton. Their fresh ideas and creative designs demonstrated the power of collaboration between education and community housing providers, offering new perspectives on how we can address housing shortages.
- Our Homes
Streamline processes
While 2023-2024 was a year of growth, we faced significant challenges due to planning delays, unforeseen permit conditions, and increased construction costs.
In response, we streamlined the design and planning phases, secured permits early for government-funded projects, and improved the tender process. These proactive steps allowed us to maintain our housing delivery goals and adapt to industry-wide disruptions, ensuring that we remained flexible and resilient.
- Our Homes
Streamline processes
While 2023-2024 was a year of growth, we faced significant challenges due to planning delays, unforeseen permit conditions, and increased construction costs.
In response, we streamlined the design and planning phases, secured permits early for government-funded projects, and improved the tender process. These proactive steps allowed us to maintain our housing delivery goals and adapt to industry-wide disruptions, ensuring that we remained flexible and resilient.
- Our Advocacy
Strengthening our voice in the media
In 2023-2024, Beyond Housing launched a comprehensive communications strategy, amplifying our advocacy efforts and strengthening our voice in the media with an average of two mentions a month.
CEO Celia Adams continues to be a prominent commentator across print, television, and radio, helping to drive awareness of critical housing issues.
- We played an active role in advocacy, opposing fines for homeless people in Wodonga
- supported state and national campaigns to secure ongoing homelessness funding
- We took a stand in support of the Shepparton LGBTQIA+ community
- Our Advocacy
Social media performance
Our digital platforms saw considerable growth. These online channels enabled us to engage a broader audience, elevate our advocacy for affordable housing, and drive greater public awareness.
- Our Advocacy
Social media performance
Our digital platforms saw considerable growth. These online channels enabled us to engage a broader audience, elevate our advocacy for affordable housing, and drive greater public awareness.
A highlight of the year was the series of media stories during Homelessness Week, which brought much-needed attention to the complexities of homelessness.
A highlight of the year was the series of media stories during Homelessness Week, which brought much-needed attention to the complexities of homelessness.
- Our People
Beyond Housing’s success is driven by the expertise and commitment of our team. Each staff member contributes valuable skills to support vulnerable people and families, helping us deliver effective housing.
81%
staff
alignment
82%
staff engagement
Beyond Housing’s 2024 Staff Engagement and Alignment Survey, placed us in the top decile for the third consecutive year. With an impressive 96% response rate (up from 88% in 2023), staff participation and investment in our purpose continues to grow.
While the numbers demonstrate significant gains, there is now an increased focus on team well-being and psychosocial health to ensure our people remain committed, focused, and supported.
84%
of our team felt that their achievements were recognised.
An increase of 55% on 2023.
While the numbers demonstrate significant gains, there is now an increased focus on team well-being and psychosocial health to ensure our people remain committed, focused, and supported.
84%
of our team felt that their achievements were recognised.
An increase of 55% on 2023.
455
training courses
completed
Staff and Board training included cultural competence, cyber security, safeguarding children, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and professional development in family violence, ethics, mental health, and case management.
455
training courses
completed
Staff and Board training included cultural competence, cyber security, safeguarding children, LGBTQIA+ inclusion, and professional development in family violence, ethics, mental health, and case management.
Wage parity
At Beyond Housing, we’ve worked hard to embed gender equality and inclusion into everything we do. A significant achievement for us this year has been reaching wage parity.
We’re proud that women make up 60% of our executive team and that we’ve consistently had women in leadership roles. From flexible working arrangements for carers to parental leave policies that ensure job security, we strive to create an environment where all staff can thrive.
60%
of our executive team are
women and we’re proud of it
Wage parity
At Beyond Housing, we’ve worked hard to embed gender equality and inclusion into everything we do. A significant achievement for us this year has been reaching wage parity.
We’re proud that women make up 60% of our executive team and that we’ve consistently had women in leadership roles. From flexible working arrangements for carers to parental leave policies that ensure job security, we strive to create an environment where all staff can thrive.
60%
of our executive team are
women and we’re proud of it
Olivia McInnes
Recovery Services Manager
Initially joining as a Tenancy Plus worker in 2019, Olivia’s journey has been one of personal and professional growth. Her work has expanded significantly, and she now oversees two critical programs: the Drug Court Program, which partners with the Magistrates Court Victoria to provide housing support to those on a Drug and Alcohol Treatment Order, and the Flood Recovery Program, where she played a pivotal role in the response to the October 2022 Goulburn Valley floods. Through her work, Olivia has helped individuals facing significant barriers—whether related to substance misuse, mental health issues, or the aftermath of natural disasters—find the stability and support they need to move forward.
For more stories
- Our Partners
We are immensely grateful for the support of a diverse range of partners whose commitment and generosity are pivotal to achieving our vision, including government agencies, philanthropic organisations, local councils, businesses, and community partners and donors.
- Our Partners
We are immensely grateful for the support of a diverse range of partners whose commitment and generosity are pivotal to achieving our vision, including government agencies, philanthropic organisations, local councils, businesses, and community partners and donors.
- Financial Report
View our complete 2023/24
Concise Financial Report
The history, culture, diversity and value of all First Nations people are recognised, acknowledged and respected. BeyondHousing embraces differences in gender, gender diversity, age, ethnicity, race, cultural background, ability, religion, and sexual orientation. We recognise the benefit that diversity and inclusion play in helping achieve our goals and vision of ending homelessness.
BeyondHousing is a child safe organisation and all offices are disability accessible. Interpreter services are also available.
All services are free of charge.