Davina Lomas from Mission Australia tells us about a game-changing collaboration between their not-for-profit organisation and the private sector that directly tackles the cost of living.
In 2023, Mission Australia and Great Southern Bank embarked on a transformative three-year partnership aimed at cutting utility bills and reducing emissions for hundreds of Australians living in Mission Australia Housing properties. With a A$1 million commitment, this collaboration is delivering meaningful change through energy-efficient upgrades and education.
So far, 109 units and three common areas have been upgraded, benefiting 136 Mission Australia Housing residents in NSW. These upgrades––across three sites in Forster and Port Macquarie on the NSW Mid North Coast and Mount Druitt in Western Sydney––include solar panels, insulation, double glazing, LED lighting, heat pump hot water systems, water tanks, and energy and water meters. These improvements are making a tangible difference to residents’ lives and to the environment.
Over the past two months, the solar system at a 40-unit complex in Western Sydney has generated 18,164 kWh of renewable energy. This equates to an average saving of A$45.46 per month per household, directly lowering tenants’ electricity costs and improving affordability.
In addition to these upgrades, Great Southern Bank has funded an Energy Literacy Program to empower residents with practical knowledge and tools to reduce their energy consumption and costs.
Through workshops, resources and Energy Home Saver packs, tenants are learning practical, easy-to-implement strategies to reduce energy costs. These packs were distributed to all 4,500 Mission Australia Housing homes, benefiting approximately 8,000 residents across four states and the Northern Territory. By improving energy efficiency, tenants can lower their utility bills and redirect savings toward essentials like food, healthcare or financial security.
In Forster NSW, Mission Australia residents are already experiencing the impact of these energy efficiency upgrades.
“These energy-saving upgrades are a win-win for myself and the environment. The new heat pump hot water system means no more waiting for the water to heat up before taking a shower. It makes a significant difference—I feel alive, feel complete,” said Andre, a hospitality worker and long-time tenant.
Claudette, a tenant in Mount Druitt, was hopeful the energy upgrades would ease some of the financial pressures she and many others are feeling.
“You’ve got to worry about your rent, your bills, buying food. If you’ve got anything left, you’re bloody lucky,” she said.
The partnership between Great Southern Bank and Mission Australia has evolved into much more than the initial funding. The partners have worked together to identify and maximise opportunities for team engagement to enhance the overall value of the partnership through volunteering, fundraising and festive appeal campaigns.
Over the Christmas period, Great Southern Bank team members donated and packed 150 hampers and matched the hampers with a A$15,000 donation to help residents across NSW and QLD, bringing joy and relief during a financially challenging time. This demonstrates the power of collaboration in community housing, helping to create a more sustainable and supportive future for tenants.
Mission Australia’s partnership with Great Southern Bank is built on strong, collaborative foundations that continually seek opportunities to grow impact and enhance initiatives. This dynamic working relationship allows Mission Australia to adapt, grow and deliver meaningful change to the communities it serves.
For more information, visit the Mission Australian website.
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