At McGrath North Lakes, we believe real estate is about more than matching people with properties — it’s about helping people rebuild their lives.
That’s why our partnership with HOWSS (Housing Older Women’s Support Service) has been so meaningful. A service of Footprints Community, HOWSS provides crucial support to women aged 50 and over who are experiencing housing stress or homelessness across Queensland.
Many of these women have lived independent, productive lives — working, raising families, and caring for others — only to find themselves without secure housing later in life. Relationship breakdowns, bereavement, job loss, or rising rental costs can leave them suddenly vulnerable. With limited superannuation and a shortage of affordable homes, some are forced to couch-surf, live in cars, or rely on temporary shelters.
HOWSS helps change that story by offering advocacy, housing assistance, and connections to essential financial and legal services. Their work helps women regain stability and re-enter the private rental market with confidence and dignity.
At McGrath North Lakes, we support this mission by identifying suitable rental properties — typically one- or two-bedroom affordable homes — and prioritise applications from HOWSS clients wherever possible. With assistance from HOWSS to apply for rent subsidies, these tenancies are given the best chance for success.
We also collaborate through education and awareness initiatives. In August, our Principal Laura Valenti joined the Understanding & Applying for Private Rentals workshop at the HOWSS Hub in West End. Her presence and insights were warmly received by the women participating. Through open conversation, Laura shared her expertise on making the private rental market more accessible, offering practical advice that shifted participants’ perspectives. Many had previously believed private rentals were out of reach due to age or income-related barriers.
Laura also highlighted how support services like HOWSS can provide context letters to help strengthen rental applications under new rental laws. The session sparked hope and understanding among participants, and we are looking forward to returning to the next information session.
Our team is proud to play a part in helping older women find their footing again. With the right support and compassion, we can all help ensure that every woman — no matter her age or circumstance — has a safe place to call home.