Navigating Housing Insecurity in Women in Midlife and Beyond!

This event, held in recognition of National Homelessness Week, aims to raise awareness and foster a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by women in midlife and beyond who lack a stable home.

Our panel consists of an esteemed expert in the field and two courageous women over 50 who will share their firsthand experiences of homelessness. We'll explore the unique circumstances that contribute to homelessness in this demographic, including financial insecurity, domestic violence, health issues, and a lack of affordable housing.

Through a moderated discussion and Q&A session, we'll delve into topics such as:

1. The contributing factors leading to homelessness in women in midlife and beyond
2. The psychological impact of homelessness and coping mechanisms
3. Available support systems and resources for women in need
4. Success stories and lessons learned from personal experiences

By providing a platform for open dialogue and learning, we hope to inspire empathy, spark conversations, and empower our community with the knowledge to impact their communities positively. Join us as we unite to support and uplift women in midlife and beyond who face housing insecurity and homelessness.

Our Lived Experience Speakers:

Veda Bloom:

Veda is an older, single woman currently living alone in community housing. She previously worked as a nurse and has volunteered at multiple organisations for over twenty years. As a volunteer at Housing for the Aged Action group, Veda uses her experience of homelessness to advocate for policy change.

Susan Hawkeswood 

Susan Hawkeswood is a community housing tenant in Sydney. With 14 years at the same address, she has been able to study and gain employment. Now retired, she is active in several tenancy groups and activities.

Our Expert

Wendy Stone is a Housing and Social Policy Professor at Swinburne University of Technology's Centre for Urban Transitions. 

Wendy conducts research at the intersection of people’s housing needs and aspirations, the adequacy of available housing, and the policy development and innovation needed to address housing gaps. With a commitment to inclusive public policy, Wendy led the specialist team of researchers that produced Ageing in a Housing Crisis: Older People’s Housing Insecurity and Homelessness in Australia, commissioned by Housing for the Aged Action Group.