For new Australians securing accommodation is an integral part of the settlement process.
Community groups across the country work alongside governments to help those most in need develop sustainable and effective solutions.
But one of these solutions, public housing, is now harder to find.
Public housing is provided by the government to assist people on low incomes, people who can't afford to own a home or may have problems renting in the private sector.
The tenants still pay rent, but it's adjusted so it's never more than 25 per cent of their income.
Priority is given to those most in need like people with disabilities or people who have experienced family violence or homelessness.
They can apply through their state housing authority.
Keith Jacobs, a professor at the University of Tasmania, is conducting an investigation into the key housing problems in Australia.
Keith Jacobs says because of underfunding, there's a massive shortage of public housing.
Currently, there are over one hundred thousand people without a home and around one hundred and sixty thousand households on public housing waiting lists across the country.
Depending on the state, the wait can range from a few months to a few years.
People have to turn to community organisations to find help.
Refugees and humanitarian entrants are among those facing increased financial hardship while they solely rely on Centrelink payments.
Liverpool Migrant Resource Centres Olivia Nguy says service providers like the Liverpool Migrant Resource Centre play a vital role in assisting the rental process.
In Victoria, each year AMES Australia assists over 40 thousand people by providing humanitarian settlement services for refugees and newly arrived migrants.
While there is some public housing close to the CBD in Sydney and Melbourne, it was mostly built in the outskirts of the cities away from jobs and opportunities.
Considering how unpredictable the renting market is in the country, Keith Jacobs would like to see more money invested in public housing so that everybody can have a fair go.
According to The Australian Institute of Health and Welfare 2014 data, there are around three hundred and seventeen thousand public housing units in Australia. Even if the large majority is occupied, some households, especially in rural areas are available.
To apply for public housing, get in touch with your state housing authority.
