Welcome to ACHL's first Quarterly Newsletter
We are proud to share ACHL’s very first quarterly newsletter, marking an important milestone for our organisation and the communities we work alongside. This publication brings together stories, updates and reflections from across our regions, highlighting the people, partnerships and programs that continue to shape our work.
As we reflect on the first months of the year, we would like to sincerely thank everyone who has contributed to such a strong and positive start. From community‑led programs and creative engagement to housing growth and moments of personal significance, this quarter showcases the impact of working together with care, respect and purpose. We are grateful to our tenants, community partners, funders and staff for their commitment and collaboration, and we look forward to continuing this journey together throughout the year ahead.
South Australia
Creativity, Culture and Community
ACHL continues to support creativity, connection and community across South Australia through grassroots engagement and arts‑based initiatives. An initial community cook‑up was hosted at Christie Downs Community House, providing an early opportunity to connect with local residents and begin building stronger community relationships. While increased participation is expected to grow over time, ACHL recognises that meaningful community development is often measured by long‑term impact rather than immediate outcomes. Some of the food prepared was also shared with Tika Tirka and the Southern Nunga Men’s Group, helping extend the reach of the initiative and strengthen connections across the community.
Creating Connection Through Art
Youth engagement has also remained a strong focus, with young people at Tika Tirka and Wardli Youth Centre in Christie Downs expressing themselves through stencil art sessions led by Community Development Officer Elijah Bravington. These sessions provided a safe and supportive space for young people to explore their creativity, share their stories and build confidence through art. The artwork produced reflects strong participation, energy and connection, celebrating the voices and talents of young people within the community. Building on this creative engagement, Elijah also delivered a hands‑on Beginner Linocut Workshop in partnership with the City of Adelaide. The workshop brought people together to learn linocut design, carving and printmaking in an inclusive and encouraging environment. Participants produced impressive prints, highlighting the power of art to connect people and showcase community talent. The success of the session was proudly shared across ACHL social channels.
South Australia
Purrkanaitya Aboriginal Elder Village Taking Shape
Construction is progressing well at the Purrkanaitya Aboriginal Elder Village in Bedford Park, marking an important milestone for Aboriginal community‑led housing in South Australia. This significant project represents a major step toward creating a safe, supportive and culturally respectful place where Elders can live independently while remaining connected to Country.
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New homes in delivery across Victoria
New South Wales
Community Connections at Coraki Village
ACHL has enjoyed several opportunities to connect with residents at Coraki Village through recent community gatherings and initiatives. A Christmas BBQ brought residents together in a relaxed and welcoming setting, with Christmas hampers delivered to all households. Many residents expressed their appreciation for the support and generosity shown, making it a special and meaningful occasion for the community.
ACHL staff have also continued to engage beyond events on site, contributing to important research into Temporary and Emergency Accommodation being led by Monash University. Our Coraki Village Occupation Manager shared valuable frontline insights from the Northern Rivers floods experience, helping strengthen understanding of community needs during disaster preparedness, response and recovery. In addition, another BBQ at Coraki Village provided a great opportunity for residents and staff to catch up, connect and enjoy time outdoors together, reinforcing the strong sense of community at the village.
New South Wales
Supporting Young People in Kempsey
ACHL is proud to support children and young people in Kempsey through programs that promote wellbeing, connection and positive opportunities. From providing healthy lunches that support school readiness to creating safe, welcoming youth spaces, these initiatives are strengthening community ties and helping young people grow with confidence, culture and care.
Boys and Girls Programs
Alongside this, ACHL supports youth programs that provide safe, inclusive spaces for young people to connect and grow. The Kempsey Girls Youth Program engages girls aged 12–17 through activities that build confidence, wellbeing and friendships. Facilitated by Nicole and Aislinn-Jay (ACHL Community Well Being), Gemma (Community Development) and Ruby (Headspace), with support from Chontell (Aboriginal Community Housing), the program gives young girls a space of their own where they can socialise, participate in activities and simply have fun — so much so that many wish sessions could run even longer.
The Kempsey Boys Youth Program offers a similar opportunity for boys aged 10–16, providing a supportive environment to learn, connect and enjoy activities together. Sessions are led by Peter, with guidance and cultural support from respected community elders Uncle Henry and Uncle Barry, and Steve Neale (Community Development, Community Housing Limited). Participants have shared how much they value having a space just for them, particularly the chance to go out on Country, learn cultural knowledge and connect with older peers and other young men from the community.
Lunch Box Program
ACHL continues to support children and young people in Kempsey through a range of community programs focused on wellbeing, connection and positive outcomes. The Lunch Box Program provides nutritious lunch packs to local children, helping ensure they attend school with a healthy meal. Each pack includes a fresh ham and cheese sandwich, fruit and healthy snacks supplied by the Neighbourhood Centre. Depending on community need, between five and up to 80 lunch packs are distributed across the week. Feedback from families has been very positive, with many sharing how much the program supports their children’s health and school readiness.
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A New Beginning for Lois
After a long and incredibly difficult journey, Lois has finally received the keys to a place she can call home. In 2023, Lois left her previous tenancy following ongoing distress and challenges. What followed was a prolonged period of housing insecurity, temporary accommodation, and uncertainty. During this time, she also experienced the heartbreaking loss of her son. Despite everything, Lois remained focused on finding stability, particularly so she could continue being there for her grandchildren. When offered accommodation that wasn’t suitable for her family needs, she made the difficult decision to decline, prioritising a safe and appropriate environment for her family.
Recently, Lois signed for her new home with ACHL. At the sign-up appointment, she was visibly emotional. Years of stress, uncertainty, grief, and resilience all seemed to surface at once. There were tears — but this time, they were mixed with relief. Relief that she finally had security. Relief that she could begin to rebuild. Relief that she could welcome her grandchildren into a safe and stable space. This wasn’t just a tenancy sign-up.
It was a turning point.
Lois now has, A secure and stable home, A space to heal and grieve, A welcoming environment for her grandchildren, The opportunity for a fresh start. Her journey reminds us why compassionate, person-centred housing support matters so deeply. A home is more than four walls — it’s dignity, stability, and hope.
