National Housing Strategy for People with a Disability 2011 - 2016

9.36 The following factors are recognised as contributing to an ideal residence in thecommunity, conducive to recovery:• Property should be bright and of a high decorative and functional standard;• Located in a settled / mature community;• Provide a quiet and restful environment;• Provide space and privacy to the tenant;• Be close to public transport services;• Be convenient to shopping, church and other community services includingeducation, training and community day services, amenities and recreation facilities;• Provide easy access to health services; and• Provide access to fresh air and greenery.9.37 In general, single unit residences in an area with good access to services and publictransport are factors that should be considered in the allocation of housing for most singlepeople with a mental health disability. It is recognised and accepted that it may not bepossible to provide all these; however, consultation with the applicant and their advocate,where appropriate, may assist the housing authority in establishing the most crucial factors.Certain features, which are frequently detrimental to the health, safety and welfare oftenants with a mental health disability, should be avoided, e.g:• Estates with significant anti-social behaviour;• Estates with a large young population;• Corner sites;• Sites deep in an estate, necessitating passage through it;• Locations isolated from the community; and• Locations too close to sport / recreation areas or those close to main roads withheavy traffic (these may have an increased level of noise irritation).116