Shelter and Housing
About our Shelter and Housing Practice
Australia’s shelter and housing sector provides support for some of the most economically vulnerable people in our society. We live in a time where the challenges and pressures around housing have never been more front of mind, and more important. Growing numbers of Australian’s are experiencing financial hardship, persistent disadvantage and social exclusion. The ongoing impact of housing shortages and cost-of-living pressures sees 1 in 8 adults and 1 in 6 children in Australia living conditions at risk of poverty creating access and equity challenges and increasing the complexity of service delivery.
While Australia is a wealthy nation overall, it has the 15th highest poverty rate of 34 OECD countries, highlighting ongoing challenges in addressing economic inequality. With over $8.4 billion being invested annually by the Australian government, and substantial contributions from state government, the policy environment remains complex, posing challenges for the growing number of organisations providing services across the community.
The sector and it’s 42,000 employees is adapting to increasing demand, complex customer needs and a shifting policy landscape as governments and community organisations grapple with delivery models and housing supply issues driven by a range of factors in the broader economy. This, combined with the need for greater commercial acumen and the capability to navigate the friction between local, state and federal policies and targets calls for new workforce capabilities in the sector across policy, infrastructure and philanthropy.
Supporting the organisations that are addressing the most fundamental needs of Australians is core to our business. Establishing new organisations and services through the appointment of high calibre-talent is where Orchard can help. We’ve supported sectors at the peak of their challenges to reshape leadership and improve frontline recruitment outcomes and bring this capability to our partners in the shelter and housing sector. Our expert team can provide guidance on establishing new teams and capabilities and provide robust, future-focused talent solutions.
