Transfers

A transfer means moving from one Mission Australia Housing (MAH) property to another.

You can apply for a transfer if your current home no longer suits your needs.

Common reasons include:

• Your household has grown or shrunk (overcrowding or underuse)
• You need a modified property for accessibility
• You need to live closer to support services or medical care
• You are experiencing harassment or abuse
• You are affected by domestic or family violence
• You have had a change in employment or family situation

To apply for a transfer, you usually need to:

• Be eligible for social housing now and at the time of offer
• Have lived in your current property for at least 12 months
• Have a good tenancy record
• Be up to date with rent or following a repayment plan
• Show that your current home no longer meets your needs
• Provide documents to support your application

If you are in exceptional circumstances, you may still be considered even if you do no’t meet all the criteria. Talk to your Housing officer. They’ll provide guidance based on your situation.

MAH looks at:

• Whether you’re eligible
• How urgent your need is

Applications are either:

• Priority – for urgent needs (e.g. safety risks, medical conditions, domestic violence)
• Nonpriority – for less urgent but valid reasons

In some states, an approved transfer application may place you on a housing register shared with other community and government housing providers. This means you may be considered for properties managed by other organisations.

1. Talk to your Housing officer – they’ll explain the process and help you understand what’s needed in your state or territory.
2. Complete the application form – include all relevant details.
3. Provide supporting documents – medical letters, police reports, support worker statements, etc.

You’ll be told the outcome and the reason for the decision.

Sometimes, MAH may require you to move to a different property.

These transfers are not optional and are initiated by MAH when:

• The property is being returned to the owner (leasehold)
• The property is unsafe or uninhabitable
• The property is being redeveloped or upgraded
• There are serious neighbourhood disputes

These are just some examples, other situations may also lead to a management transfer.

If this happens, MAH will:

• Explain why the transfer is needed
• Offer suitable alternative housing
• Give you time to prepare and move
• Help you stay connected to services and supports
• Provide financial help for moving costs (if eligible)

MAH will work with you to make the move as smooth as possible and ensure your needs are considered.

We understand that moving can be stressful, and we are here to help.

MAH staff will:

• Be sensitive to your situation
• Explain the steps clearly
• Help with referrals to support services if needed

If your current home no longer suits your needs, talk to your Housing Officer. We’ll work with you to explore your options and support you through the process.

If you’re unhappy with our service you can lodge a complaint. See our Appeals and Complaints Fact Sheet.  

See our Transfers and Other Changes to Tenancy Policy for more information.