The affectionately named Granny Flat is a small, separate house out the back of another larger house, like a bungalow. They are often used by families who want to live close by their older relatives or teenage children. If you don’t have a Granny Flat, but you do have a friend or relative with a backyard or land where you could put one, you can rent one from the Office of Housing.
Like Public Housing, Movable Units cost 25% of your income. They are small houses that have a loungeroom, small kitchen, bedroom and bathroom. A stove, heater and a hot water service are also provided. Walls and ceilings are fully insulated, and vinyl floors are fitted in the kitchen and bathroom areas with carpet in the lounge- room and bedroom. Two bedroom units are also available for couples with medical needs.
The waiting time for Movable Units is approximately 3-6 months and all connections such as sewerage, electricity and gas are supplied at no charge by the Office of Housing. The owner of the property needs to help you to apply with a Certificate of Title and sewerage plan. When the Movable Unit is no longer required it is removed and relocated to another home.
| Cost before you move in | There is a one month bond to pay when you move into a Public Housing Moveable Unit. HAAG may be able to help you with bond and the costs of moving. |
| Cost each fortnight | 25% of your income. Centrelink does not pay Rent Assistance if you live in a movable unit |
| Eligibility | • Receiving an income from Centrelink • Have under $31,520 in assets |
| Location | In the backyard of a friend or relative who you feel you can live closely to. |
| Changes you can make to your house | Units are adapted to suit your needs and modifications and maintenance are done by the Department of Housing |
| How long can you stay there? | As long as you need it or until the home owner/renter no longer wants the unit in the backyard |
| Legal coverage | Tenants in Movable Units are not covered by the Residential Tenancies Act and do not have strong rights under Victorian law. For more information on laws that govern living in a Movable Unit contact us on 1300 765 178 |
| How to Apply | Apply directly to the Office of Housing by calling 1300655 049 or www.housing.vic.gov.au/movable-units Contact us on 1300 765 178 for help to apply for a Movable Unit. |
All information contained on these pages is general in nature, and should not be considered advice. Information will be subject to change. Please contact us to discuss your individual circumstances.
Stories from client’s housed in Moveable units
Burning to move
In March 2024, 84-year-old Daryl attended Cobram Community House alongside his daughter and son-in-law, seeking advice regarding his housing. Daryl had been privately renting a farmhouse for the past 25 years. However, he was approached by the landlord who informed him that the property has been sold to the landlord’s grandson and Daryl would need… …
Posted in: Client Stories, Moveable Units, Housing Support, North Central Victoria