Supporting home ownership: Julie-Ann's story
For most of her adult life, Julie-Ann had rented. She moved frequently, finding it hard to gain a lasting sense of stability.
“I’d always wanted a place of my own,” Julie-Ann said. “But buying a property felt overwhelming. I never really thought home ownership was something I could afford.”
Julie-Ann’s biggest barriers to buying a home were affordability and income. Working as a support worker, she never felt home ownership was financially achievable on her own.
“I just didn’t feel like I earned enough to buy,” she explained. “I was always worried I wouldn’t be approved or that I’d end up compromising too much.”
In September last year, Julie-Ann began actively searching for a home but quickly realised how challenging the process would be without additional support.
That’s when a conversation with her brother, an accountant, changed everything. Early last year, he told her about the Australian Government Help to Buy Scheme.
“When he explained how it worked, it suddenly felt possible,” Julie-Ann said. “Help to Buy made the process feel much simpler and less intimidating.”
Following the launch of the Help to Buy Scheme in December 2025, Julie-Ann was able to access the support she needed to confidently enter the property market. Clear communication to practical assistance at every stage of her journey made a meaningful difference.
“The communication was really good,” Julie-Ann said. “I felt supported through the entire process.”
The Government’s contribution made a significant difference to what Julie-Ann could afford. Rather than settling for less, she was able to purchase a higher-quality, well located home that suited her lifestyle and needs.
“I could find something close to my community, shops and convenient places,” she said. “The Scheme made house hunting feel exciting, not discouraging.”
Today, Julie-Ann owns a new home that offers comfort, space and stability for the future. “It’s in great condition and has enough space just for me,” she said. “There’s a big balcony, and I finally have room to invite friends over.”
For Julie-Ann buying her own home represents more than just property. “It means security, safety and flexibility for my future,” she said proudly.
As she looks ahead, Julie-Ann is excited about the freedom that comes with having a place of her own. “I’m looking forward to doing what I want, when I want, and having a creative space that is truly mine.”