'I used to be ashamed I grew up in social housing. Now I'm grateful.'

Growing up in social housing was not an easy path, but it can offer a unique education on life that cannot be found in any school. I know this from personal experience. Like Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, I grew up in social housing in Sydney. Where the houses were made of cheap fibro and the 'new estates' were regularly portrayed in the media for antisocial behaviours, 'dole bludgers' and an array of stereotyped Australians characterised in the popular Australian comedy television series called Housos.  

While growing up as a 'houso', I was constantly told that I would never amount to anything. My family lived below the poverty line, and every day was a struggle just to get by. However, what I was taught during those challenging years was an education on life itself.

Living in 'housing commission' (during the 1980s the government agency that managed public housing was called Housing Commission) meant engaging with people from all walks of life and culturally diverse backgrounds. I learned how to communicate and connect with others in a way that transcends social and economic barriers. These early experiences have served me well in my professional life, allowing me to relate to people from all walks of life and advocate for those who are marginalised.

Watch: How does housing affordability have an impact on young Australians? Post continues after video.

As a talent manager with a successful career today, I am honoured to represent a talented roster of individuals who come from diverse backgrounds, including those who have also grown up in social housing. I take pride in the fact that, like me, my clients have been recognised with numerous award nominations and are actively involved in public discussions and initiatives related to gender and cultural reforms, pay equality, diversity, and inclusion, as well as the promotion of Australian perspectives and representation in media and on the global stage.

My success is not just about me; it's also about giving back to the community that gave me so much. That's why I work for and surround myself with like-minded people who help other businesses and individuals find a place in the world, so their voices are heard, and they are seen.

Despite the persisting stigma of being labelled a 'dole bludger' due to residing in social housing, the reality is that many people living in such accommodations are far from it. These individuals are often elderly, survivors of domestic violence, former foster children who were displaced or have experienced other forms of adversity or everyday Australians who cannot afford the increased rental prices or the inflated cost of living. They are hardworking Australians trying to make ends meet.

My experiences growing up in social housing have also taught me the value of hard work and perseverance. When life throws you curveballs, it's essential to keep moving forward and not give up. If applying for social housing assistance gives you this opportunity, why is it so wrong? Social housing is no longer limited to the cheap fibro house in western Sydney. There are many ways social housing can assist you in Australia, including: 

• Public housing 
• Community housing 
• Rent assistance
• National Rental Affordable scheme (NRAS) 
• Crisis Accommodation 
• Transitional Housing

There is also other not-for-profit organisation assistance available to those who may be experiencing hardship, including financial counselling, material aid, disaster relief, asylum community programs and mental health support.

If seeking assistance from social housing or any of the other supports available prevents homelessness, then I would encourage you to explore these options, even if it is living in the cheap fibro house. Any of us could end up homeless and in need of support. All it takes is a bush fire or flood, personal relationship to end, custody battle for your children, retrenchment or loss of employment, bad investments, estrangement from your family, or unexpected legal cost.

Growing up, I was ashamed of living in social housing. There was such a horrible stigma attached to it at school, in the media, and chatting to everyday Australians. This stigma caused me to feel ashamed and embarrassed. This is not a great feeling for any young person to feel when their parents are doing their best to keep a roof over their children’s head so they can feel safe and be afforded basic comforts.

Image: Supplied.

Like Prime Minister Albanese, growing up in social housing has influenced my career. This is why I have dedicated my career to advocating for diversity and inclusion, as I believe everyone deserves to be seen and heard, regardless of their background.  

While growing up in social housing was not the ideal situation, I am not ashamed of it either. This lived experience has assisted my life shaping and has given me in-sight into my behaviour and decision making to make positive changes for myself and to supports others to make self-determined choices.

Listen to The Quicky where we talk to someone who lives in a tiny home - and look at whether it really is the answer to our growing housing problems. 

Feature Image: Supplied.