Deidre Hill and her mother, Valerie Smith, have lived in their modest Bondi unit in Sydney for four decades, watching their neighbourhood evolve dramatically. When they first moved in, their rent was a mere $80 per week, but by the time they received an eviction notice last November, it had skyrocketed to $900. The couple faced this difficult turn after being informed by their landlord about urgent structural repairs that necessitated their departure.
Deidre, 65, who works part-time in food merchandising, and Valerie, 83, who relies on a disability pension, managed their rising rental costs by taking in a boarder. However, their situation became more precarious following the eviction notice, leading them to appeal their case at the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal. They managed to secure a postponement, granting them until June 8 to vacate. Unfortunately, upon applying for urgent social housing, they were deemed ineligible as their income exceeded the threshold by about $100.
As a result, the pair found themselves unexpectedly homeless, separated from one another and relying on the generosity of friends for shelter. Deidre stayed on one friend’s couch while Valerie remained with another. This separation has been particularly tough for Deidre, who considers her mother her best friend, as Valerie struggles with the stress of their situation. The disruption, including the need to store their belongings, has taken a toll on Valerie’s health, leading to a hospitalisation linked to stress.
Despite some recovery, Valerie continues to grapple with emotional distress. Deidre remarked that they both wish to find another rental in their familiar area, where Valerie has established a support network, but available options are unaffordable, typically exceeding $1200 per week.
The mother and daughter duo have received some assistance from the Wayside Chapel, including food vouchers and help with storage costs. A case worker from the organisation noted that Deidre and Valerie exemplify a new demographic of homelessness, characterised by previously stable tenants suddenly being unable to secure housing due to unforeseen circumstances in an increasingly competitive rental market.
Efforts are underway to secure temporary accommodation for them, but logistical challenges persist, as even when temporary housing was available, it would not accommodate them together, which is essential for their mental well-being. The Wayside Chapel continues to appeal for donations to support their winter campaign, highlighting the urgent need for assistance in such distressing cases.