The Housing Matters Action Group Inc (HMAG) is calling on residents across the Bellingen Shire to take part in two new community housing surveys – designed to capture local experiences, challenges, and hopes for a fairer housing system.
Over the years, HMAG has relied on the voices of local people to guide its work. The insights gathered through past surveys have directly shaped the organisation’s priorities and delivered tangible outcomes – proving that good data leads to real change.
When HMAG’s first Needs Mapping Survey in 2018 revealed that older, single women were among the most vulnerable groups locally – often facing housing insecurity, displacement, or homelessness – the organisation used that evidence to advocate for affordable, secure housing for this group. That advocacy helped pave the way for the Watson Place development, which now provides 23 units of affordable housing for women over 55 at risk of homelessness.
Now, HMAG is inviting the community to take part in two new surveys that will guide the next phase of its community-led housing work through the Next Horizon Initiative (NHI), supported by the Siddle Family Foundation (SFF).
“These surveys give us the evidence we need to understand what’s really happening in our housing system,” said HMAG Coordinator Rose West. “They also give residents a powerful way to shape the solutions – from local projects and partnerships to our broader advocacy for policy change.”
The surveys include:
1. Pulse Survey – quick check-in (2 minutes)- A short, two-minute snapshot designed to capture how housing pressures are affecting the community right now. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/HMAGPulse
2. Needs Mapping Survey – deeper dive (15 minutes-https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/K3W26VQ
Building on Local Voices
The updated data will be crucial in shaping HMAG’s 10-year strategic plan and ensuring the organisation’s ongoing advocacy and partnerships continue to deliver for the people of Bellingen Shire.
As a small thank you, each week one person who completes the longer Needs Mapping Survey will go in the draw to win a $50 Buy Local gift card- supporting both local voices and local businesses.
“We want everyone to take part – renters, homeowners, older residents, young families, people new to the area and those who’ve lived here for decades,” said HMAG Coordinator Rose West
“Every response helps us build the evidence we need to make sure Bellingen remains a place where everyone can thrive.”
Alongside the public surveys, HMAG is also conducting targeted consultations to ensure the voices of under-represented groups are heard. This includes First Nations community members, young people, and local homelessness and support services.
These sessions will provide space for deeper, face-to-face conversations — exploring lived experiences, cultural perspectives, and practical solutions that can strengthen the community’s collective response to housing need.
“Housing is about more than just buildings — it’s about connection, safety, and belonging,” Ms West said. “By sitting down with groups who are often most affected, we can make sure that our next decade of work truly reflects the needs and aspirations of everyone who calls this place home.”
Contact HMAG for more info: 0494 331 821 / info@housingmatters.org.au