Real homes. Long-term leases. Rents you can actually afford.
More affordable rentals that feel like home.
For key workers, families, and low-to-moderate income earners, rising rents and short-term leases make it hard to put down roots. Supported by government policies like the Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF), Essence Homes connects you with more affordable, long-term rentals. With quality homes offered at rents below the equivalent market rate – typically 25% less – you can settle in and plan your future with confidence.
Every home on Essence Homes is priced below its equivalent market rent – typically 25% less. To apply, you’ll need to meet the eligibility criteria for your chosen home.
Check that your household size and income meets the criteria shown on each listing before enquiring.
If you are eligible, please enquire for a home. You will be notified quickly if your details meet the eligibility requirements for the home.
Come and inspect our homes during one of our openings. Meet our friendly team and discuss your options.
Once we've reviewed and verified your application, we'll send through your lease agreement — then it's time to schedule your move in!
Essence Homes listings are available to households that meet eligibility criteria. To get started, we’ll check your household size and gross income against the program limits.
Looking for an affordable rental in Victoria? Explore our current listings, from Bendigo and Melbourne to Geelong and beyond.
Essence Homes helps key workers, families and low-to-moderate income earners find long-term rentals that actually fit their budget. Browse what’s available and see if you’re eligible.
We list long-term rental homes in Sunshine Coast, Ipswich, Moreton Bay and beyond.
Essence Homes makes it easier for everyday Queenslanders to access affordable rentals. See what’s on offer and check your eligibility.
Affordable homes are rental properties offered below typical market rates to support low-moderate income households, often delivered through government programs, such as HAFF, CHPs, or private developers.
We offer fixed-term rental agreements with a minimum term of 12 months. This helps provide some stability and give you a home you can really settle into. Short-term leases are not available for properties under the affordable housing program.
When applying, you will need to provide evidence of gross household income and other eligibility requirements. We ask for supporting documents to make sure offers go to households that meet the criteria. Proof of income includes documents such as your latest ATO statement from the most recent financial year, payslips covering at least 2 consecutive pay periods, recent Centrelink Income Statement. You will also need to complete an ID check and provide rental references. Gathering these documents upfront helps the process run smoothly and ensures that we can make an offer quickly to those who qualify.
To be eligible for an affordable housing tenancy, applicants must satisfy all following criteria at the time of application and must continue to meet them on an ongoing basis, subject to the eligibility review process:
Income limit applies: Your household’s gross annual income must be within the published limits for your household type (e.g., single, couple, family). These limits are set by Housing Australia and updated annually.
Principal Residence: The property must be your primary home.
Age Requirement: All leaseholders must be 18 years or older.Household Size: The number of occupants must suit the property size (e.g., no overcrowding).
Documentation Required: Applicants must provide proof of income (e.g., payslips, ATO statement, Centrelink statement), photo ID, and rental references.
Rental History: Applicants must pass standard tenancy checks (no serious breaches or arrears).
Annual Reviews: Eligibility and income will be reviewed annually. Rent may adjust if your income changes.
No Subletting: Subletting is not permitted.
Bond & Rent in Advance: One month’s rent (at the discounted rate) plus bond is payable before move-in.
Lease Term: Minimum 12 months.
Rent is commonly set at a discounted market rate (e.g., 25% below market) or as a percentage of household income, depending on the program.
Essence Homes is part of the UniLodge Living Group, one of the leading operators in the Living Sector. We proudly present our listing platform to connect renters with well-designed homes offered under affordable housing policies. Our homes are curated from developers committed to building for the long term.
Long-term leases. Clear eligibility. No uncertainty.
We handle the complexity of navigating affordable housing so you don’t have to — giving you the clarity to find a home you can settle into, and stay.
News, insights and education on all things affordable housing.
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Essence Homes News Back to all News Essence Homes Rental Platform Providing A Pathway to 1,330 Fairly Priced Long-Term Homes Across Australia With Australian renters facing a deepening rental crisis, Essence Homes is unlocking access to affordable, rent-reduced housing for 1,330 households over the next two years. Aimed at helping address the growing demand for […]
Criteria Changes Allow More Access to Rent-Reduced Long Term Housing Options in Australia Eligibility criteria has been expanded, allowing more residents long-term housing options. This move will ensure more families are able to access affordable housing options, allowing them to unpack and put long-term roots down. The rental stock handled by Essence Homes is targeted […]
Helping everyday Australians find long-term rental opportunities that match their budget, family and future.
