Australia’s first housing co-operative dedicated to trans women has received critical government funding, marking a major step forward in the fight against homelessness and housing insecurity among the transgender community.

The All Nations Housing Co-operative, established 14 years ago, was founded with a mission to provide safe, secure, and affordable housing specifically for trans women, a group disproportionately affected by housing discrimination, harassment, and social exclusion.

In a landmark move in 2024, the City of Sydney sold seven terrace houses in Darlinghurst to Common Equity New South Wales (NSW) as part of its excess land programme. The properties were transferred at a significantly reduced price of AUD$2.5 million (€1.5 million) to support vulnerable populations.

These inner-city homes, located near Oxford Street, will become dedicated residences for trans women thanks to a long-term partnership between Common Equity NSW and the All Nations Housing Co-operative.

Now, the New South Wales government division, Homes NSW, allocated AUD$2.4 million toward the refurbishment of the properties. Moreover, Federal Government’s Social Housing Accelerator Funds program awarded them an additional AUD$1.8 million.

Nick Sabel, CEO of Common Equity NSW, highlighted the importance of securing this funding, stating, “We are so gratified that the Government, at all levels, heard us and understood the need for this group of trans people. We’ve been working with All Nations Co-operative for over a decade, and it’s incredibly rewarding to finally help bring their vision to life.”

Transgender individuals, particularly trans women, face disproportionately high levels of homelessness and housing insecurity. Research has shown that they often experience workplace and housing discrimination, as well as increased risks of violence and social isolation. For many, access to stable housing can be life-saving.

The co-operative housing model offers more than just shelter. It fosters a sense of community, promotes well-being, and reduces feelings of isolation by allowing residents to actively participate in managing their living environments. For trans women in Australia and beyond, who often encounter barriers in mainstream housing and social services, this model provides both safety and empowerment.

The All Nations Housing Co-operative remains a small, trans-owned and volunteer-led organisation that has spent over a decade working toward this moment. Its success in securing these properties and funding signals a growing recognition of the need for targeted, community-driven housing solutions.

The collaboration with Common Equity NSW and the support from the City of Sydney are seen as a powerful example of how inclusive urban planning and policy can directly improve lives.