Understanding the big social housing picture

Terry Burke is Professor of Housing studies at Swinburne University. He is one of Australia’s most well-known academic researchers and conceived, developed, and taught Swinburne’s suite of social  housing management courses (Grad Cert, Dip and Masters in Housing Management and Policy). He has served on many urban and housing advisory panels and committees for all levels of government and is currently on the board of the CHIA Vic.

This short course is about understanding the big picture. Why are housing problems in Australia so deep and entrenched, why is the social housing sector in Australia like it is; how is it different to other countries, why are housing problems in Australia so deep, and what are the contemporary debates about social housing management practices such as allocations, rent setting, and support services? And what is the relationship between housing and the welfare/income support system? The course is about building knowledge rather than day to day skills.

The course will cover:

• The distinctive attributes of the Australian housing system.
• What is a housing problem?
• The different ways low income households can be assisted.
• The how and why of the Australian social housing system.
• Rent setting methods in social housing.
• Allocation systems and problems and issues.
• The asset management challenge.

It would be suitable for:

• Management and team leaders
• Staff with responsibility for tenancy and property management
• Anybody interested in Australia’s current housing problems