The South Australian Aboriginal Housing Strategy 2021 – 2031 is a 10-year plan to improve housing outcomes for all Aboriginal South Australians. It has a common vision that Aboriginal peoples within South Australia have equitable access to safe, secure and affordable homes; and that this is achieved through shared decision making and culturally informed services, to maintain Aboriginal peoples personal and cultural wellbeing.

The strategy has been shaped by the voices of Aboriginal communities and individuals during extensive engagement, which highlighted the need for existing services to be culturally responsible and flexible, and to better meet the needs of Aboriginal communities.

Whilst consulting with Aboriginal communities across South Australia, community members and participants consistently called for self-determination and self-governance to improve housing and life outcomes. We heard community voices seeking opportunities for home ownership, employment and contracting opportunities for local Aboriginal people in their own communities.

We have responded by creating a strategy that aims to realise these aspirations for greater self-determination in housing where Aboriginal communities can set their priorities, co-design housing services and be supported to develop their own local housing management frameworks.

What the strategy aims to achieve

It is a long-term strategy to improve Aboriginal housing in South Australia and includes 17 actions under six clear pillars that will:

  • put Aboriginal voices at the centre of decision making
  • change the way Government does business
  • create more jobs for Aboriginal peoples and businesses
  • make more safe places to stay when and where you need it
  • provide better access to housing
  • enable pathways for buying a house that are accessible and ethical.

A key element of the strategy is partnerships, acknowledging the pivotal role Aboriginal peoples play in addressing their communities’ housing needs, interests, and aspirations and creating opportunities and partnerships to support this.

The strategy has been developed in close consultation with Aboriginal people and considers the full housing continuum, from crisis services and social housing through to affordable housing options and home ownership.

Download a pdf version of the strategy