An affordable home is a rental property offered at a lower price than typical market rates. These homes are designed to help people on low to moderate incomes by keeping rent at a more manageable level. They’re usually provided by community housing organisations, government programs, or some private developers.
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.
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The Housing Australia Future Fund (HAFF) is a government initiative designed to increase the supply of social and affordable rental homes in Australia. Through this scheme, Essence Homes offers high-quality, new-build properties at a rental rate that is typically at least 20% below the market. It is designed to help more Australians find a comfortable and secure place to call home without the financial strain.
Because there is a high demand for high-quality, affordable homes, we often receive more applications than there are available properties. When you apply for a property that gets allocated, our team will inform you on other availabilities that match your requirement. Our team is committed to helping as many people as possible find a place to call home, and we will do our best to keep you informed.
We absolutely want you to live in a community where you feel happy and connected. However, availability does vary ebtween suburbs, and different locations will have different rental rates, which relate to scpecific income thresholds under the affordable housing policies. We encourage you to use our household eligibility calcultator to check before you enquire about one of our rental properties.
Eligibility usually depends on income thresholds, household size, residency status and local demand. Specific criteria are set by each state or provider. You can utilise our Household Eligibility Calculator to check your specific circumstances and see if you are eligible for a rental under an affordable housing policy.
Applicants must satisfy 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; up to 5 years available if eligibility continues.
Eligibility is reviewed annually to ensure tenants still meet program requirements. Homes delivered under the HAFF scheme have an initial income threshold and an existing income threshold to allow for small uplifts in income throughout the tenancy. This ensures tenants still meet program requirements.
To help us process your application smoothly and confirm your eligibility for the affordable housing scheme, we will ask you to provide a few key documents. Preparing these in advance can make the process much faster. Generally, you will need to supply:
When you express interest in a property, we will provide a complete checklist so you know exactly what is needed. Our friendly team is here to guide you through gathering these documents and answer any questions you might have along the way.
The short answer is yes, your household size can change. However, because our affordable housing properties are allocated based on specific eligibility criteria (including household size and income), it is important that you keep us in the loop.
If your household grows, please let your property manager know as soon as possible. We will need to:
We are here to support you through life’s changes. By communicating with us early, we can help ensure your housing situation remains secure and compliant with the scheme.
If your household income increases, it’s important to let us know. We conduct regular eligibility reviews, usually before your lease renewal, to ensure our homes continue to support those most in need, as required by the affordable policies. An income increase doesn’t automatically mean you will have to leave your home. If you income rises but still falls within the affordable housing eligibility band, your tenancy can continue as normal. If your income grows beyond that threshold, we will have a conversation with you well in advance of your lease ending. We are committed to providing a fair and supportive transition, which may involve helping you explore other housing options. Our goal is to handle these situations with transparency and care, giving you plenty of time and support to plan for your next steps.
Applying is straight forward!
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.
You have the option to lease for up to 5 years if eligibility continues.
Most affordable housing arrangements still require a bond, rent in advance, and standard tenancy application checks.
Utilities are usually the tenant’s responsibility unless otherwise stated in the lease.
Pet policies vary by provider and building. Standard state laws on pet approval in rentals apply.
Transfers may be possible but depend on availability, eligibility, and local provider policies.
Some providers offer tenancy support, financial counselling, community programs, or links to local services, especially for at-risk households.
Most affordable rental programs do not include purchase pathways, but some providers run shared-equity or rent-to-buy schemes.
Discover affordable, high-quality rental homes designed for comfort and stability. Whether you’re looking for a fresh start or a place to settle down, Essence Homes is here to help. Explore our listings today and take the first step toward a brighter future.
