“There is nothing more powerful than women healing women. Better Together Housing offers dignity, support, and hope — and it reminds us that we are not alone.” Helen
A Life of Leadership and Care
Helen, 69, has lived a life of leadership, resilience, and compassion. After decades in the corporate world, most recently led a team of 22 in the banking industry. She shifted her focus to supporting others, working with survivors of domestic and family violence and offering retreat catering. She is semi-retired now, with two daughters and three grandchildren, enjoying life in Maleny.
Facing Housing Uncertainty
Although Helen is currently in a stable rental, she lives in a unit on a two-acre property in Maleny and her rent is currently affordable. However the owners are elderly and she understand that her living situation could change quickly and she could either be evicted or the rent could be easily increased beyond her means. That uncertainty prompted Helen to start exploring options for the future, knowing how vulnerable many older women are in today’s rental market.
Discovering Better Together Housing
When Helen saw an ad for a Better Together Housing meeting at the Maleny Neighbourhood Centre, her interest was piqued. With her background in women’s health and safety advocacy, she immediately recognised the value of creating spaces where women could connect, share, and support one another.
At her first gathering, Helen found exactly that — a safe, supportive network of women who understood the challenges of housing insecurity. “Maggie’s approach is generous, kind, gentle and caring. She connects women on a level that gains their utmost trust and provides them with tools, empowerment, and hope.” She says.
Connection That Matters
For Helen, Better Together has been as much about community as housing. She treasures the friendships she’s built, the knowledge she’s gained, and the safe space to share and listen. She recalls the joy of watching women who felt hopeless suddenly find friendship, housemates, and new homes.
“The stories of hopelessness turned into stories of absolute bliss when two or more women find each other through this safe space. The laughter, the creativity, the honesty — it’s a gift to be part of it.” Says Helen.
The Impact
- Friendship and support: Helen has built meaningful relationships with other women.
- Knowledge and empowerment: She now understands her housing options and the services available.
- Confidence for the future: She feels prepared if she needs to relocate.
- Hope and inspiration: Seeing other women’s housing journeys succeed reminds her what’s possible.
Looking Ahead
Helen hopes for a future where housing is treated not as an investment tool but as a basic right — where women can live with dignity and security. She calls for less talk and more action from governments: funding, grants, and relaxed regulations to make multiple occupancy and shared living easier.
She is grateful for the community she has found with Better Together.
“The meetings provide a very safe space for women to connect on their own terms, become friends and potentially housemates. I attend the meetings with an open, supportive heart and feel very grateful that I found this group.” Says Helen
Join Our Community
Are you a woman over 55 who is experiencing, or worried about experiencing, housing insecurity? You don’t have to face it alone.
At Better Together Housing, we are building a community of women who support, encourage, and walk alongside one another to find safe, affordable, and sustainable housing solutions. Here, you’ll find friendship, understanding, and practical pathways to a brighter future.
Take the first step — join our community today. Together, we are stronger, safer, and better.