Modifications to your rental home
A home modification program is available to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander housing tenants who have a disability or care for someone with a disability. Changes to houses or units can allow better use of the housing environment and enable Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with a disability to live safer and more independent lives.
Home modifications depend on the individual needs of a tenant. Some of the accommodation available from the department may not be able to be modified and you will need to discuss alternatives with your local Department of Housing office.
What sort of modifications can I request?
There are several types of modifications you can request for your home, including:
- changes to bathrooms, toilets or kitchens; or
- installation of ramps and grab rails.
How do I apply for modifications to my home?
To apply for modifications to your home, contact your local Department of Housing office. The department will organise an occupational therapist to assess your needs.
What if I have special needs?
If you have special needs resulting from a serious medical condition or disability or because of age have difficulty with normal household activities such as climbing stairs, accessing your bath, or reaching high cupboards, the department will organise an occupational therapist to assess your situation and the assistance available.
How long will this assessment process take?
An occupational therapist will visit you within a week of your request. If the assessment is to take longer than a week, you will be contacted and advised of the wait.
Once approval is given, you will be notified of:
- the modifications to the home; and
- the commencement date of the work.
What happens if the work is major and I cannot use some areas of my home?
If the approved modifications to your home are to be major, the department may consider temporarily re-housing you until the work is complete. This will be discussed before work commences.
Can I take the alteration or modification with me when I leave the house?
If you have paid for the modification or alteration to your home, you may be able to take it with you when you leave, although you will be required to restore the home to its original state.
If the department paid for the work, then it must remain in the home.
What if my needs change and I require further modifications to my home?
At your initial meeting, the occupational therapist will try and anticipate any future difficulties you may experience. If you require further modifications, contact your local Department of Housing office to organise a re-assessment.
More information
View the Department of Housing office map for your local office's contact details.
Last updated 07 July 2005
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