Brisbane Housing Company
“Sharing with Friends have advocated strongly for their model and to have a pilot project funded. BHC is a supportive partner, and we applaud the obvious passion and drive of Sharing with Friends for the work they are pursuing, and the important outcomes that such work can achieve for older women in housing need.
BHC has mentored, supported, and stood alongside Sharing with Friends as the model and concepts have been developed, and we recognise the collaborative community nature of this submission, which has commitment from the corporate, philanthropic, not for profit sectors.”
Deicke Richards Architects
“Deicke Richards has been involved with Sharing with Friends since 2020. We have advocated and designed social and affordable housing for government and community organisations since the practice started 29 years ago - it is in our DNA. We could see in the SwF model something innovative and replicable. We were inspired by the intelligence, energy and determination of this extraordinary group and were happy to offer our skills to help prove up the concept.
The SwF co-housing model is not only about providing affordable and safe housing for women at a time in their life where they may be very vulnerable- but about creating an environment where they can genuinely develop friendships and support. It is not just about living beside others but living with them. It is a project very close to the hearts of everyone at DR. “
Housing Older Women Movement
“The Housing Older Women Movement has supported the Sharing with Friends Foundation since its inception as one example of the new and diverse models needed to meet the housing aspirations of Older Women.
The Sharing with Friends model fills a niche gap by enabling women with modest savings or Superannuation to attain housing security within a small group of supportive women.
We commend everyone who has contributed to the successful work of the Foundation and trust that it will continue to enable more Older Women to access safe, secure, and affordable housing appropriate to their needs where they can live well, and age in place.”
Minter Ellison Lawyers
“As a purpose-driven organisation, MinterEllison, through our Pro Bono & Community Investment Program, works with community partners to find innovative and effective opportunities for our people to channel time and expertise into breaking cycles of disadvantage.
Our focus areas include supporting people experiencing or at risk of homelessness and addressing the complexities of domestic and family violence. Sharing With Friends presents a unique model of providing safe and affordable housing to older women and so very much resonates with the aims of our Pro Bono & Community Investment Program.
We are proud to have been providing the pro bono legal assistance needed to establish and develop Sharing With Friends and look forward to our ongoing support of this important initiative. Our support also recognises fondly the legacy of former MinterEllison Partner, Ross Landsberg.”
Zonta International District 22
“Zonta International District 22 Ltd recognises and values the contribution of the Sharing with Friends committee in providing a housing option for older women at risk of homelessness in our community. Sharing with Friends is well oriented to Zonta’s goal to build a better world for women and girls, and the support from Zonta Clubs for this organisation will continue.”