What does the CHCSA do?

Policy Development

The CHCSA researches matters that could affect the future of community housing by:

• Policy development about community housing at all levels of government.
• Interpretation of and advice on policies to members where appropriate.
• Membership of key government or sector committees and reference groups.
• Attendance at seminars and conferences and building on linkages & networks.
• Sector and policy consultations with members.
• Promoting and advocating for policy development and inclusions.

Representation

As the Peak Body, the CHCSA ensures the needs and views of its members are presented to the Commonwealth, State and Local Government. This includes:

• Representation on boards, committees and advisory bodies.
• Advocacy to MPs, the Minister and Local Government.
• Sector consultations on major issues i.e. Policy changes in Community Housing.
• Representation on National bodies and national consultation.
• State, National and community networks and links. Umbrella memberships to some key specialist community support organisations for access by members.
• The structure of the CHCSA reflects the organisation's commitment to member involvement.

General Services Provided

• Provides information and referrals to inquiries made by the general public.
• Facilitates an Introduction to Community Housing (ICH) course for housing co-operatives and associations; 3 sessions each of 2 hours covering all aspects of Community Housing.
• Develops and produces good practice guides, manuals, information kits, forms and regulatory information.
• Provides a specialist community housing library and network service.
• Delivers a broad range of member referrals, advice and support where appropriate.
• Offers the use of CHCSA facilities and equipment at member rates.

Information and Weekly E-Bulletin

The CHCSA maintains frequent communication with members through:

• Phone and regular mail-outs to CHOs.
• Weekly electronic based bulletins (E-Bulletin).
• Monthly regional forums, 'Special' consultations and Policy Forums. (Management Committee, Policy Committee, Associations' Forum, Co-operatives' Representative Council, Spanish Speaking Forum, x3 Regional monthly Forums, Special Consultations, and policy forums)
• Facilitating a regular Public Information Session to the general public providing general information on Community Housing, including such things as, Eligibility, how do I apply? and what is Community Housing?
• A quarterly newsletter boasting an extensive distribution database nationally.
• Promoting the benefits of community housing through representation and information to the general public.
• Producing special publications such as brochures, fact sheets, flyers and handy hints.  Click here to view them.