Project Independence (PI) operates a home ownership solution for people with an intellectual disability. Created as a social business, PI offers a model of home ownership that is unique - not just in Australia, but internationally.

PI provides people with an intellectual disability the opportunity to progressively build home equity using a component of their Disability Support Pension. PI provides people with an intellectual disability a viable and achievable pathway from dependency on shared, social housing to independent home ownership within the broader community.

The need of people with an intellectual disability for safe and affordable housing cannot be overstated. This group is one of the most disadvantaged in terms of home ownership in Australia, with seemingly no real prospect of improvement. In 2022, the Anglicare Rental Affordability Snapshot surveyed nearly 46,000 rental listings across Australia and found there were no suitable and affordable rental properties available to people on a DSP in the ACT and Queanbeyan.

How your donation will help

Project Independence currently operates two premises in the ACT – providing homes for 20 residents with an intellectual disability. Construction of a third Project Independence premise for ten more residents commenced in 2022 and is scheduled for completion by June this year.

The land for the Phillip complex was provided at no cost to PI by the ACT Government. The total cost to construct the facility is now over $2 million, a sizeable increase from the original construction budget. As per many construction projects, COVD delays and recent dramatic construction material price hikes have significantly impacted the budget with some items increasing by more than 40%.

Money raised from the Canberra Day appeal will allow us to pay for materials and trades for the Phillip property. The completion of the build will provide our 10 new residents a safe home for them to grow their Independence, both financially and socially.