Created by Clients, for Clients
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Argyle Housing cares about the environment and is committed to a sustainable environment and follows a comprehensive environmental protocol. The Argyler is printed on FSR® certified paper traceable to certified sources. We use a new varnish coating process that is environmentally-friendly. We use soy-based inks with low VOC and recycle all unused ink. We recycle all scrap paper.
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Argyle Housing Gundungurra Country
32-36 Wingecarribee Street Bowral, NSW 2576
P.O. Box 1026, Bowral NSW 2576 1300 274 953 www.argylehousing.com.au info@argylehousing.com.au
CEO
Welcome Welcome to our Winter Edition of The Argyler.
With 2025 well underway it has proven to be a busy start to the year for the team at Argyle Housing. Community Events have already commenced, and we are about to launch our 2025 Client Survey. The Argyle Housing Team, love this period every two years where all member of staff is given the chance to directly engage with you to receive your feedback on the service you receive, and how we can continue to improve on this. The submission from you is confidential but these results are used to develop an action plan for the next two years to work on areas of value to you.
As always there are some great prizes for you to win when you complete your survey as well as some additional local activities that will pop up in your area. We would really love your feedback but even better we would love you to be one of our Winners in the prize draw this year!
You will notice in this edition of The Argyler that we have had a couple of office moves recently. This has been part of our commitment to try and ensure that our staff are as accessible as possible to our clients. The move in Wagga is a particularly important one and reflective of our long-term commitment to the Tolland community, and to be in the community that we serve. This will be replicated in the coming months when we relocate our Griffith Office into the Ngumbaaydyll Community Hub which is being built as a part of our Griffin Green development.
Thank you to everyone who has contributed to this edition of The Argyler, it is always such a delight to read the personal stories and the incredible contributions that our clients are making in their community each and every day.
Stay safe, Carolyn Doherty, CEO
Carolyn Doherty CEO - Argyle Housing …it is always such a delight to read the personal stories and the incredible contributions that our clients are making…
Editorial
Dear Argyle Housing Clients,
As the weather begins to cool down, I want to extend my warmest wishes to all of you. The coming months can be a cozy and enjoyable time, and we have some great tips and tricks to help you make the most of your home during this season.
In this issue, we delve into the story behind Picton Cars & Coffee, founded by four passionate members: Matt, Mario, Josh, and Nicole. Matt, a car enthusiast, and Mario, his physiotherapist, often discussed their love for cars during treatments. They envisioned a Cars and Coffee event in Picton. Nicole, who coordinated Emerald Hills Cars & Coffee, met Matt at one of the meets and discovered they had mutual friends. They decided on Walton St Carpark as the event location. This event has become a wonderful community gathering, bringing together car lovers from all around.
We also explore the potential of your backyard in our article on Your Backyard Garden. Many Argyle Housing clients have large backyards, which can be a great asset. If you have children, it provides them with their own play space, with plenty of room for a swing set, sandpit, or playhouse. It can also serve as a place for your dog to run or a more secure place to park your car. If you’re looking to make the most of your backyard, consider starting a garden. It’s a rewarding hobby that can provide fresh produce and beautiful flowers.
As temperatures drop and heating bills rise, keeping your home warm while staying within budget can feel overwhelming. But fear not! Our Winter Heating Guide offers practical tips to help you create a snug living space without burning a hole in your pocket. Use draft stoppers at the bottom of doors to prevent cold air from entering. Layer up by wearing warm clothing and using blankets to stay cozy. Opt for energy-efficient heaters and set them to a comfortable temperature. Open curtains during the day to let in sunlight and close them at night to keep the warmth in.
Lastly, as the weather cools down, Fire and Rescue NSW (FRNSW) urges everyone not to become complacent about home fire dangers. A fire can spread rapidly and be devastating. In under three minutes, toxic smoke and flames spreading through your home will put you and your loved ones at serious risk. Our article on Fire Safety This Winter provides essential tips: ensure your smoke alarms are working properly, keep heaters away from flammable materials, and have a fire escape plan that you practice with your family.
Wishing you all a safe, warm, and enjoyable season ahead!
Warm regards,
Scott Dunstan Editor and Head of Marketing
Scott Dunstan Editor and Head of Marketing
The coming months can be a cozy and enjoyable time, and we have some great tips and tricks to help you make the most of your home during this season
Stay Connected with the Client Portal!
Managing your tenancy has never been easier!
Our Client Portal helps you stay on top of everything, anytime, anywhere.
Request repairs & maintenance
Pay your rent
Submit complaints
Update your contact info
Stay informed with the latest news
Need help getting started? Check out our handy guide on our website https://portal.argylehousing.com.au/dashboard
Join The
Argyler
Client Editorial Team
We need your ideas and stories to keep The Argyler relevant to you.
Do you want to contribute to The Argyler?
Do you have a great news story that you would like to share?
Would you like your ideas published to our community? If so, we would like to hear from you.
For more information, contact Scott Dunstan at: editor@argylehousing.com.au
Editorial Team
Goulburn Office is Moving Wollondilly Service Hub
We are excited to inform you that the Argyle Housing office has relocated to a new and convenient location at Workspace Goulburn.
Our new office location offers level street access and a lift to the first floor, ensuring ease of access for all clients.
New Address: Level 1, 56 Clinton Street, Goulburn, NSW, 2580
Office Opening for Appointments
Office Hours: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
To schedule an appointment or request a call, please call us at 1300 274 953 or email us at cssnorth@argylehousing.com.au
We look forward to welcoming you to our new office and continuing to provide you with the best possible service.
Wagga Wagga Office is Moving
The Argyle Housing Wagga Wagga office has officially relocated to the Tolland Community Centre at 41 Bruce Street, Tolland.
New Address:
Tolland Community Centre
41 Bruce Street, Tolland NSW 2650
T: 0439 641 445
E: cssouth@argylehousing.com.au
Mon – Fri: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
For easy access to the Tolland Community Centre, check out the 962 or 963 Bus about routes for drop-off times at Bruce Street and download the bus timetable for more details via the link below.
https://argylehousing.com.au/our-work/tch/
Stay informed by following the Tolland Community Centre Facebook Group for updates on services, events, and community news.
We look forward to continuing our support from the Tolland Community Centre.
An exciting new service to our local community where you can access a range of services and access help with whatever it may be you, need, resources, support and more. No bookings are required, services available to provide assistance on the day.
NSW Fair Trading SSI (NDIS)
Revenue NSW
Argyle Housing Services Australia Centrelink (advice and Information) Service NSW
APM Employment Agency
NSW Ombudsman
Disability Gateway
Every third Wednesday of every month 10am-1pm Tahmoor Community Centre, 6 Harper Close Tahmoor. 19th March 16th April 21st May 18th June 16th July 20th August 17th September 15th October 19th November 17th December
Receive real-time updates
Engage
T: 0439 641 445
E: cssouth@argylehousing.com.au www.argylehousing.com.au
Maintenance Survey
Enhancing Our Service: Your Feedback Matters!
At Argyle Housing, we believe that our Clients’ voices are essential in shaping the quality of our services. That’s why, starting from 1st July 2024, every time you request a repair or maintenance call-out for your property, you’ll receive an email inviting you to complete our Client Survey - Maintenance Contractors 2024-2025.
This survey is designed to gather your valuable feedback on the maintenance repairs and the contractors who perform the work. Your responses help us understand your level of satisfaction and identify areas where we can improve.
Here’s a glimpse of what the survey includes:
Property Address
Work Order (six-digit number e.g., 128935)
Did the contractor ring to make an appointment? (unless an URGENT response)
Did the contractor turn up on time, or notify you if they were going to be late?
Did the contractor present any forms of ID? (This may include a copy of the work order)
How well did the contractor explain to you what work was being done?
Your feedback is crucial in helping us enhance our service delivery. Each response is carefully reviewed by our Maintenance team to ensure we continuously improve and meet your expectations.
If you have any questions about the survey or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact our Maintenance team at 1300 274 953.
Thank you for helping us make Argyle Housing a better place for everyone. Your input makes a difference!
Smoke Alarms - Your Safety is Our No.1 Priority
What you need to know about smoke alarms!
Smoke alarms save lives – they detect smoke to alert occupants especially when sleeping.
Argyle Housing is required by law to test the smoke alarms in your property annually (excluding leasehold properties).
Smoke Alarms Australia is Argyle Housing’s authorised partner for smoke alarm testing.
It is imperative clients allow access for the testing.
The Landlord has the authority to access the property if the client does not allow access. In this instance an Entry Notice will be issued and a locksmith arranged. We want to avoid this and appreciate Tenant cooperation.
Spare keys cut
Argyle Housing is currently working to ensure that we have spare keys for all our properties. In the near future, you may receive a letter requesting your assistance in obtaining a spare set of keys for your property. We will provide information on where you can have these keys cut at no cost. Once we have a spare set, it will be securely stored at our office. Having a spare set is crucial for emergencies or if you happen to misplace your keys. If you receive a letter about this request and have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact your Client Support Specialist or call us at 1300 274 953
Thank you, Argyle Housing
Clients will be contacted by SAA to make an appointment for testing via a phone call or in writing.
Picton Cars & Coffee: How It Started
Picton Cars & Coffee was founded by four members: Matt, Mario, Josh, and Nicole. Matt, a car enthusiast, and Mario, his physiotherapist, often discussed their love for cars during treatments. They envisioned a Cars and Coffee event in Picton. Nicole, who coordinated Emerald Hills Cars & Coffee, met Matt at one of the meets and discovered they had mutual friends. They decided on Walton St Carpark as the event location.
In December 2023, Nicole created a Picton Cars & Coffee page on Facebook, and the first meeting in February 2024 was a success. Josh, a young motoring enthusiast and photographer, joined to engage local youth. Mario, well-connected in the community, helped spread enthusiasm. Breakout Enterprises now supplies merchandise, and Mark, a well-respected local mechanic known as “The Bike Guy,” engages with motorcyclists within the group.
Our mission is to support local businesses and charities, creating a platform for motoring enthusiasts to unite. The group, now with over 5.4K members, has received community recognition and awards. They continue to evolve, aiming for further community engagement and charity partnerships.
Follow us on Facebook for more information. https://www.facebook.com/pictoncarscoffee/ Picton Cars & Coffee is held on the 2nd Sunday of the month behind the Mac Bank in the carpark. The Lions Club of Tahmoor Inc. provides the BBQ breakfast.
Written by Argyle Housing client, Tony
Photos sourced from the Picton Cars & Coffee Facebook page
Your Backyard Garden
Many Argyle Housing Clients have a large back yard and this can be a great asset to the resident. Or it can be a worry if its only purpose is to be mown. Of course, if there are children it provides them with their own play space, with plenty of room for a swing set, sand pit or play house. Likewise the backyard space can serve as a place for the dog to run or a more secure place to park your car.
One of the greatest things about having a good-sized backyard is that there is space for a vegetable garden. You can buy a raised garden bed which can be filled with some top soil and planted into. Lots of people like these because they are also “no bend” and the gardener can work from a comfortable standing position rather than kneeling on the ground. You can make a classic “no-dig” garden by simply digging an area to a depth of about 10 centimetres. Remove any weed clumps, roots and stones. Fill the area with a mix of sand, crushed charcoal, and apply a wetting agent. Water it well – the mix should absorb the water, it should not run off. Add some slow release fertiliser. Then cover with a mulch which can be materials like pea straw. Wet this down and lastly add a layer of manure or compost. And it is ready for you to plant.
If you become enthusiastic about enriching your soil, you can set up a worm farm and a compost tumbler. Both of these items help you to dispose of your organic waste from vegetable scraps to fallen leaves, thus reducing the amount of waste going to landfill. The worms make casts and “juice” which form excellent fertiliser, while your compost rots down to form humus which can be dug through the soil.
Written by Argyle Housing client, Lyndal
As we are coming into autumn, it is an excellent time to get going with your winter crops. The Brassicas, such as cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower are suitable plants to try now. Others include the Chinese vegetables, pak choy and bok choy. Silver beet and spinach are very easy to grow. Recently my son and I compared results between planting seedlings from punnet and simply scattering seed, and to my surprise, the seeds scattered in place did very well, as well as being cheaper and a bit easier to plant. With both styles of planting, there is the need to keep marauding snails away: they can take out your crop overnight.
Not everyone wants to grow a large bed full of vegetables. An alternative that you can try is to simply plant a few pots of your favourite herbs such parsley, chives and mint. Mint will grow rampantly in a garden bed so it is best to keep it confined in a pot anyway.
The Argyler story Award
Well done to the following winners of The Argyler writing competition 2024 who each won a $50 gift voucher:
Jodie - Murrumburrah
Karina - Queanbeyan
Amanda - Campbelltown
Cameron - Queanbeyan
Andrew - Conder
We will publish their stories in future Argylers in 2025.
Please read the beautiful stories of Amanda and Andrew
My name is Amanda, I have three beautiful kids that I’m super proud of but this is about My eldest Daughter Lara who turns 18 in December.
Lara has Marfan syndrome, as do most of My Family, My Dad being adopted we didn’t find this out until 2000 when My Dad’s aorta dissected. Lara born in 2006 was a beautiful healthy baby, it wasn’t until she turned 9 years old that her back started to bend with the worst scoliosis (a complication of marfans). Her back by 11 years of age was at 70 degrees!
We were living on the south coast at the time and travelling to Westmead Children’s Hospital for treatment. In 2016 her surgery finally came around.
We were able to find housing with a family friend in Campbelltown, closer to the hospital. She had a halo fastened to her head and pins put through her knees and that’s how she remained for three months, flat on her back. I slept beside her and lived at the hospital for this time.
Three surgeries later, one very scary one, where I nearly lost her, She was discharged. In a wheelchair and still so far from okay, We had the difficult task of finding housing, made so much harder due to me not driving. It wasn’t until Argyle Housing stepped in and answered all my prayers that we got a lovely four bedroom home, where we still reside.
I’m happy to say my Lara is doing great now, it’s her graduation tomorrow and I couldn’t be prouder! She has big dreams for the future. She loves singing with school of rock and intends on pursuing international studies and hoping one day to work with the UN. She has some more surgeries to come, as do I, but for now I’m just enjoying every victory, be it small or large. I still thank God everyday for this house and Argyle Housing.
Kind regards, Amanda
Written by Amanda, who is an Argyle Housing Client from Campbelltown
Tears
Never be ashamed of tears.
Tears are the mind
Making peace with the soul; Tears are the lubricant of relief
And the doorway of release.
Tears are the purest expression Of common humanity; Heartfelt tears
Cannot be ignored
Without bitter cost.
No-one cries
Without laying themselves
On the line
And hanging their laundry
Out to dry.
Tears are a crystal stream
That bubbles up from within
To cleanse all falsehoods
And wash clean the slate.
Men who cry
Women who cry Are purer for the experience
And ripe for beginning
Again.
Tears are the soul made visible; As the rain falls from heaven
Filling the dams and rivers
From which life feeds and flows
So are tears the revitalising rain
Replenishing the spirit within That carries us forward
From the barren now.
Tears are never shame enshrined;
Tears are always A soul-fountain
Restoring life, Hope and Tomorrows.
Written by Andrew, who is an Argyle Housing Client from Conder. Tears© 12.8.96
Spotlight on Leanne Client Service Specialists: Building Stronger Communities
At Argyle Housing, our Client Service Specialists (CSS) play a pivotal role in building lasting relationships with clients, fostering engagement, and ensuring sustainable tenancies. These dedicated professionals coordinate support services, community participation programs, and collaborate with client support agencies and internal teams to provide comprehensive client care and promote positive community engagement.
CSS professionals conduct property inspections, address tenancy matters, and facilitate meaningful connections that enable clients to maintain stable housing and achieve pathways toward greater independence. Their efforts are essential in creating a supportive environment where clients can thrive.
In this edition of The Argyler, we are excited to share insights from Leanne, one of our dedicated Bowralbased CSS team members. Leanne highlights the impactful work she does each day to support and uplift our communities. Her dedication and passion for helping others exemplify the core values of Argyle Housing and the positive difference our CSS team makes in the lives of our clients.
To view Leanne’s inspiring journey and learn more about the incredible work of our Client Service Specialists, click on the QR Code to visit the Argyle Housing YouTube channel. Together, we are building stronger, more resilient communities.
Ricky Khan: A Journey of Resilience and Art
Ricky Khan’s life is a testament to resilience, community, and the transformative power of art. His journey, marked by challenges and triumphs, has been shaped by the support of Argyle Housing, the Gundungurra Aboriginal Land Council, and individuals like former Argyle Housing CEO, Wendy Middleton.
Ricky faced discrimination and harassment in Sydney due to his Aboriginal heritage. With support from his doctor, counsellor, and neighbour, he applied for housing through Argyle Housing. A staff member named Caitlin provided the support he needed, and Ricky recalls how the organisation has continued to assist him.
Moving to the Southern Highlands brought Ricky peace and a sense of community. He took pride in maintaining his home and contributing to his neighbourhood. His work with the Gundungurra Aboriginal Land Council focused on preserving cultural heritage and fostering community pride.
Art has always been central to Ricky’s life. His creative talents earned him recognition, including third place in an Australasian art competition. His artworks, inspired by his Aboriginal heritage, have been showcased in New York and various galleries.
Despite serious health challenges, including a cancer diagnosis, Ricky remained resilient. The Genesis Cancer Care team in Campbelltown provided
both medical treatment and emotional support.
Ricky’s philosophy of giving back to the community is central to his life. He became involved with the Gundungurra Aboriginal Centre, using his legal and political expertise to address council issues. He also envisioned a partnership with Argyle Housing to create inclusive community spaces.
Ricky’s artwork, deeply rooted in his cultural heritage, became a source of hope and inspiration for others. He expressed gratitude for the support he received, particularly acknowledging
Wendy Middleton’s impact on his journey.
In gratitude, Ricky gifted an artwork titled “Bundjalung” to Argyle Housing. The piece, featuring geckos, symbolises lifelong support and protection. This imagery reflects Ricky’s journey and the steadfast support he received from Argyle Housing.
Ricky Khan’s story is one of overcoming adversity, staying true to his values, and using art to make a positive impact. His journey continues to inspire others, reflecting the resilience, creativity, and community spirit that define his life’s work.
Warm Up Without Breaking the Bank: Your Winter Heating Guide
As temperatures drop and heating bills rise, keeping your home warm while staying within budget can feel overwhelming. But fear not! In this guide, we’ll explore practical tips tailored just for you, helping you create a snug living space without burning a hole in your pocket.
Seal the Leaks in Your Castle: Let’s start with the basics. Take a stroll around your home, and if you feel a draft, it’s time to seal the leaks. Grab some weatherstripping or draft stoppers for doors and windows – it’s a simple fix that can make a big difference, keeping the warmth in and the cold out.
Bundle Up, Inside and Out: Embrace the cozy life! Instead of cranking up the heat, throw on an extra layer or snuggle up with a warm blanket. It’s a small change that can have a big impact on your comfort without the need for extra heating.
Make Friends with Your Heating System: Your heating system is your ally in the battle against the chill. Treat it well, and it’ll treat you well. Regularly clean filters and check for any issues. If you can, invest in a programmable thermostat – it’s like having a personal temperature manager, ensuring your home is warm when you need it.
Window Magic: Your windows play a crucial role in keeping the cold at bay. Invest in thick curtains or blinds to act as a barrier against the chill. Close them in the evenings to keep the warmth in, and open them on sunny days to let the natural heat work its magic.
Rug Up Your Floors: Cold floors can make your home feel much chillier. Lay down some rugs or carpets to add an extra layer of insulation. Not only will this help keep the warmth in, but it will also make your home feel cozier.
Use Space Heaters Wisely: If you need to heat a small area, consider using a space heater. They can be more energy-efficient for heating individual rooms. Just make sure to follow safety guidelines and turn them off when not in use.
Cook Up Some Warmth: Use your kitchen to your advantage. Cooking meals in the oven can add extra warmth to your home. Plus, there’s nothing like a hot meal to warm you up from the inside out.
Stay Active: Moving around can help keep you warm. Simple activities like cleaning, exercising, or even dancing can generate body heat and make you feel warmer.
By following these tips, you can stay warm and cozy in your Argyle Housing property without worrying about high heating costs. Stay snug and save smart this winter!
Complaint Quick Facts
Step 1
If you feel comfortable, raise your concerns informally with your Client Support Specialist or the Client Support Lead in your local area.
Step 4
No matter how you raise your complaint, it is important that your report is as accurate as possible and contains dates, times and who was involved if applicable – it is a good idea to keep a written record.
Step 2
If you have raised your concerns informally and are not satisfied with the result, you can raise a formal complaint through Argyle Housing’s complaint handling processes and policy.
Step 5
When Argyle Housing receives a formal complaint, we process the complaint in accordance with our Complaint Policy. The Policy is available from any Argyle Housing office or on our website.
Step 3
A complaint can be raised on client portal In writing to your local office (email, letter, complaint form)
Over the phone with any staff member
Using the Complaint link on the Argyle Housing website
Email complaints@ argylehousing.com.au
Step 6
When making a complaint, you can ask someone else to act on your behalf – this person/ agency will need your written consent before we can discuss your complaint with them – this is to protect your privacy.
What can I do if I am disappointed with the result?
If you receive a response to your complaint and you believe your concerns have not been appropriately addressed, or that Argyle Housing has not followed its Policy, you may wish to explore other avenues such as:
Seeking the support and advice of a tenancy advocacy service; or
Finding out about the CHP’s appeal’s policy and procedure and lodging an appeal with the CHP; or
Appealing to the local appeal body within your State or Territory about the CHP’s decision; or
Lodging a claim with your local Residential Tenancy Tribunal within your jurisdiction for matters relating to tenancy, rent, or maintenance issues which cannot be settled amicably between the CHP and the tenant; or
Contacting your local Housing Registrar in those instances where you believe matters are of a serious or sensitive nature. In most cases this will be the Housing Registrar in the State or Territory where the housing property is located.
More information on Complaint Handling for Tenants can be found at the National Regulatory Scheme for Community Housing website.
Appeal a Decision
A quick overview on what you need to know
One of the standouts from the 2023 Client survey results is that a lot of Clients do not know how to appeal a decision made by Argyle Housing. Visit the website
Every Argyle Housing Client (or their representative) has the right to appeal a decision made by Argyle Housing. Housing applicants or their representatives also have the right to appeal.
An appeal is a request to have a decision reviewed and involves a fresh look at the issue to see if an outcome can be changed in full or in part. The appeal will address the merits of the case and examine what the best possible outcome should be.
An appeal is different to a complaint. A complaint is when you are not happy with a response to, or quality of, service delivery. A complaint is dealt with separately to an appeal. www.argylehousing.com.au
Appeal Quick Facts
Always speak to your Client Support Specialist first and try to sort out the issue before lodging a formal appeal. Sometimes an easy solution is just a conversation away
If this doesn’t work, you will need to lodge what is called a First Level or Tier 1 Appeal/Review request to Argyle Housing
You can also lodge by email, post, in person or over the phone to any Argyle Housing office
The process of assessing and completing the appeal will take no longer than 28 days from the date of receipt. You will be notified if there is expected to be a delay
Your request for appeal will be reviewed by a senior Argyle Housing staff member who was not involved in making the original decision
Decisions that are not appealable include:
Matters which are the responsibility of the NSW Civil & Administrative Tribunal or equivalent in each State or Territory
Decisions that are not directly related to the applicant/Client
The content of our policies
Matters not relating to the provision of housing
Internal administrative and funding matters of the housing provider
Complaints about the way a service is provided
Programs not related to the provision of service
Decisions about home purchase assistance services.
Decisions that can be appealed:
There are a lot of appealable decisions and we have listed a few of these below. If Argyle Housing makes a decision that you are not happy with that is not on the list below, please speak with your Client Support Specialist to see if an appeal is possible:
Property offers
Property entitlements
Rent calculations or rent subsidy cancellations
Transfer applications
Relocating tenants for management reasons
Requests to modify properties
Succession of tenancy
Water charges
Absence from dwelling
Client charges.
You have the right to have someone assist you to lodge an appeal and act on your behalf
The right to appeal is limited to 3 months from the date of your being advised of the decision. However, there are certain decisions that have legislated appeal periods
An appeal can be lodged by completing the ‘I Want to Appeal Form’ found on the Argyle Housing website: argylehousing.com.au or it can be lodged through the Client Portal.
Once the appeal assessment is completed, you will be formally advised of the outcome
If you’re not happy with the outcome of your appeal, you have the right to lodge a Second Level appeal to the Housing Appeals Committee in NSW or Housing Review Committee (ACT)
Argyle Housing’s Appeal Policy is available online at: argylehousing.com.au/ about-us/policies/
Be Fire Safe
This Winter
Stay Warm, Stay Safe:
Winter is peak time for house fires due to heaters, electric blankets, and cooking accidents.
Keep It Clear:
Keep flammable items like curtains, bedding, clothing, and furniture at least one metre from heaters. Never dry clothes on or near heaters, and ensure heaters are in good working order.
Roll, Don’t Fold:
Turn off electric blankets when not in use, especially when you’re out or sleeping. Check for damage before use and roll them for storage instead of folding.
Avoid Overloading:
Use power boards with built-in safety switches. Never plug one power board into another, and avoid using damaged cords or old appliances.
Wheat Bags:
Heat wheat bags according to instructions, never in a gas or electric oven. Don’t use them in bed or for children, and let them cool completely before reheating.
Stay Alert When Cooking:
Never leave cooking unattended, especially when using oil or high heat. Keep pot handles turned inwards and stovetops clear of flammable items like tea towels and paper towels.
Have an Escape Plan:
Practice a simple fire escape plan with your household. Knowing what to do in an emergency can save lives.
Smoke Alarms:
Ensure every home has working smoke alarms. Test them monthly and replace the batteries yearly unless they are 10-year lithium models. Never remove or cover a smoke alarm. If your alarm isn’t working, report it to Argyle Housing for assistance.
ELECTRIC BIKE AND SCOOTER CHARGING SAFETY
Lithium-ion batteries are the fastest growing fire risk in New South Wales. Charge E-bikes and E-scooters safely to reduce your risk.
Don’t charge when you’re asleep.
Once the battery is full, disconnect it from the charger.
! Always use the charger that came with your device. Just because the plug fits, it doesn’t mean it’s compatible.
Don’t charge in or near living-spaces like bedrooms or living rooms. Charge in an open area like a garage or shed, away from exits. Make sure you always have a working smoke alarm.
Charge batteries on hard surfaces like concrete or tiles. Make sure that there’s nothing around it that could catch on fire.
Buy known brands with the Australian Regulatory Compliance Mark tick.
Get RID of Mould
In your home, mould generally grows where moist warm air meets a cold surface. Mould thrives in damp, dark, cluttered, poorly ventilated environments, like your bathroom or laundry. It can grow on carpets, curtains, walls, ceiling tiles, insulation material, behind furniture, and in cluttered storage areas.
Moulds are fungi that need moisture and organic material to grow. When disturbed or dried out, they release spores that can cause illness in some people. They may also cause structural damage if left untreated.
1 Why should I be concerned?
Some moulds can be detrimental to your health. If you have health concerns about exposure to mould, you should consult your health care professional.
2 How do I remove mould?
Small areas of mould up to one square metre can be cleaned using a mix of four parts white vinegar and one part water. If the mould contamination is more than this, you should notify your Client Support Specialist.
3 What should I do if I find mould?
If you identify any water leak in your home, then you should alert your Client Support Specialist immediately. If you identify mould in your home, greater than one square metre then you should call your Client Support Specialist.
You should do whatever is practical to mitigate your loss including removing clothing from a wardrobe which has mould contamination.
The most common types of mould are not hazardous to humans, however some moulds which may be found inside your home may cause health problems.
What can I do to prevent mould?
Your obligations as a tenant are to keep the premises ‘reasonably’ clean. However, there are some additional practical steps you can take to help prevent mould.
Ensure you use the exhaust fans in the bathroom and kitchen to exhaust steam.
Leave up to 10 centimetres between your furniture and the internal walls to allow air flow.
Do not dry wet clothes inside.
Open curtains and blinds to allow natural light into the home.
Do not clutter rooms, allowing air flow through rooms helps prevent mould.
Open windows or use exhaust fans when using clothes dryers.
You should tell your Client Support Specialist about any damage to the premises as soon as possible.
Note on your condition report any sign of dampness or mould when commencing the lease.
Wendy Middleton Scholarship
Up to $1,500 for individuals
Are you a new or continuing student, mature age student, at University, TAFE or with a registered training organisation? If you answered YES to any of the above, then you are able to apply for the Wendy Middleton Scholarship.
Scholarships are part of an annual education program for Clients, providing up to $1,500 for college, university or TAFE students. The scholarship money can be used to pay for any educational costs, such as course fees, text books, specific clothing, computers or anything which helps you to complete your education.
Applying for a Wendy Middleton Scholarship is easy: simply fill in a short application form, which takes around five minutes. More than one member of your family can apply. Scholarships are open to any household member enrolled in full-time or part-time tertiary education during 2025.
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