Program links lonely seniors with young people seeking affordable accommodation

It's hoped the program will not only reduce the problems young people have finding affordable accommodation, but relieve the isolation and loneliness faced by older people and allow them to live independently at home for longer.

Non-government organisation Holdsworth Community will deliver the pilot HomeShare program in Sydney, working with older home owners and younger people, safeguarding all parties through a robust screening and matching process.

Holdsworth community already runs a similar program matching older homeowners with people of varying ages.

Families, Communities and Disability Services Minister Alister Henskens said the HomeShare program was a win-win for the community.

"We know many older people living alone can often experience loneliness and this pilot will match them with a younger person looking for housing while they work or study," Mr Henskens said.

"This is a multi-generational solution to addressing social isolation among seniors and helping millennials live more independently, and learn some life skills along the way.

The program will run in the inner city and northern suburbs of Sydney due to the high number of single-occupant households and work and education opportunities for young people.

Instead of formal rent, Holdsworth negotiates shared expenses such as utilities for the younger person to contribute to the household. The young person also assists with chores and must be able to stay overnight.

Holdsworth Community chief executive Ruth Kestermann said if the young person had concerns about the home owner's wellbeing, Holdsworth was there to provide services and support.

"We oversee every part of the arrangement, offer ongoing input, and take the matching process incredibly seriously," Ms Kestermann said. "For the home owner, it's about finding someone whose company they'll enjoy, and who will in turn value them."

9302-3688, holdsworth.org.au