Independent Living Services

About independent living

The Brotherhood’s Independent Living service provides secure, affordable housing to older people on low incomes to allow them to live independently. The service is the only one of its kind in inner Melbourne providing additional welfare support, outreach and social connection opportunities.

We understand that living at home helps to maintain a sense of wellbeing and quality of life. Our secure tenure accommodation gives tenants stability and the confidence to feel safe, secure and settled.

We operate three Independent Living sites in inner Melbourne. All are close to local amenities, health services, parks, shops and public transport.

Who is eligible?

To be eligible for the BSL Independent living accommodation people must:

• be aged over 55 years.  
• on a low income - on an aged care or disability pension with few assets.
• not be a property owner in the past two years.
• be fully independent with all activities of daily living.
• able to attend their own medical appointments.

Location

The sites are close to BSL headquarters in Fitzroy

• Millott House– nine furnished bedsitters with shared laundry facilities
• Palmer Street – 10 one-bedroom flats
• Sidney Myer House– 15 rooms each with an ensuite, shared kitchen, a spacious common living area and laundry facilities.

Disability access

Please note, some of our independent living accommodation is located upstairs without access for people with physical disabilities.  

Services provided

• The designated welfare worker from the Coolibah Social Connections and respite team provides the following support for residents:
• Supervision and support of living arrangements
• Welfare and social support needs
• Access to Coolibah Social Connections Hub
• Emergency and after-hours maintenance issues

COVID-19 outreach services

During the COVID-19 period the Coolibah team is providing the residents with outreach services which includes:

• Virtual programs and web chats where you can engage with like minded individuals
• Telephone support for welfare and wellness checks.
• Assistance with collecting essential grocery shopping and medications (not available during stage 4 restrictions).

Help us improve

We welcome feedback from residents, their families, friends and others to help us provide the best possible care. Please use the online feedback form or contact us directly at the BSL Independent Living Service.