Beneath the postcard-perfect skies of our tropical region lies a confronting truth: many locals still have no place to call home. In the Whitsunday region, Whitsunday Housing Company Ltd (WHCL) is working to rewrite that narrative, by providing vital housing support and championing long-term solutions to ensure every individual has a safe, secure place to live.
Established in 2007, WHCL is a registered charity and not-for-profit community housing provider. The organisation delivers long-term, crisis, and transitional accommodation to people in need.
“Our goal is to advocate for, lobby and support the housing needs of the Whitsunday region,” says Chief Operating Officer Joanne Moynihan.
Since joining WHCL in 2014, Ms Moynihan has led the organisation alongside a dedicated volunteer board, striving to support those most affected by housing insecurity.
WHCL helps people on low incomes or experiencing hardship access affordable, stable, and appropriate housing. As the region’s Specialist Homelessness Service provider, the organisation also offers emergency accommodation, assistance for tenants in rental arrears, and support to secure long-term housing.
“In the past 12 months alone, we have supported over 400 individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Cannonvale, Proserpine, Bowen and Collinsville,” Ms Moynihan says.
Ms Moynihan highlights the importance of community housing in regional areas like the Whitsundays, where rental prices and housing shortages are increasing pressure on vulnerable residents.
“Community housing plays a critical role in regional areas like the Whitsundays, where rising rental costs and a shortage of affordable housing options have led to increasing demand for homelessness support,” she explains.
“It supports people to rebuild their lives, maintain employment, keep children in school and stay connected to their communities.”
A key current initiative is the Tiny Homes Project, which addresses the rising homelessness among single women over 55 – Australia’s fastest-growing demographic in need. Thanks to the advocacy of Cr Jan Clifford, council donated land for the project's first site.
Fundraising efforts led by Sandy Clark, along with contributions from local businesses, volunteers, and Whitsunday Company Housing have raised over $730,000. Despite various setbacks, construction on the project will continue, but donations are still urgently needed due to rising costs.
“As a not-for-profit charity, we rely heavily on the generosity of the community,” says Moynihan.
“Having the community respond to calls for donations to support large and small endeavours is always gratefully appreciated.”
To learn more about WHCL or contribute, visit https://whcl.com.au or email admin@whcl.com.au
Your support could change a life, and give someone a place to call home. We’re not just building tiny homes, we’re building a community.
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