Melbourne resident Akemi is living with a mental illness in supported housing.
Akemi is not his real name but he knows the effect insecure housing can have on self-esteem and confidence.
He says housing security is critical to feeling better.
Whether it's insecure accommodation or living in the outer suburbs far away from work, these factors can create stressful lives and cause health issues.
Professor Carl Grodach from Monash University says some of these challenges can be overcome if cities are planned properly.
But he says often the role of race is overlooked.
