BEND aims to create a neighbourhood where people of all ages, cultural backgrounds and economic status can live in harmony with the environment and each other.

To achieve this we intend a mix of housing, by offering blocks for public sale but also stipulating that some blocks be reserved for sale to housing providers that offer rental accommodation. BEND's Not For Profit Rental Housing team is actively working towards this ambitious goal.

Reflecting the mix of owned/rented housing in the wider Bega market, BEND planned for one-third of housing to be for rental purposes, and is working towards six blocks being taken up by suitable providers. As most blocks allow dual occupancy development (subject to council approval of particular site plans), this can provide a useful amount of housing, of benefit to all.

In 2005, the initial stages of an Eco Housing Co-operative formed (to be a separate group from Bega Eco Neighbourhood Developers), and publicly launched an affordable housing prospectus.

In early 2007 it was decided that BEND, as developers, would be better placed to secure grant money or a suitable partnership to finance the project, which after being built ideally would be managed by the Housing Co-operative. BEND continues to be open to working in partnership with community housing providers to advance the project.

We have reached an in-principle partnership agreement with Community Housing Ltd (CHL) to build 10 houses on five lots, and a funding application for this has been submitted.

The BEND Not For Profit Rental Housing team is currently meeting regularly to turn BEND’s vision into a reality. To become a part of this, either as a prospective occupant, as a housing provider or by helping to generate the necessary funds or expertise, email BEND via Jenny Spinks.

BEND has set up a dedicated bank account to receive financial contributions towards our Affordable Housing goals, and through our partnership with CHL these are fully tax-deductible.

Those of you wanting to help us raise the considerable funds needed can make your payment online directly into this secure bank account, or at any branch of the NAB, with all funds going to repaying the block price and building costs.

NAB Account name: Bend Housing Fund
BSB 082-439
Account No. 81-082-3199

It is also possible to pledge funds or lend money for our building program - for more information, email us at affordablehousing(at)bend.org.au 

The BEND's Friends page soon to appear on this website acknowledges those who have assisted BEND and its objectives, from our earliest steps to the imminent realisation of the eco-neighbourhood vision.

We would especially like to thank donors to our Affordable Housing fund, as their support is necessary in reaching our goal of one-third Not-for-Profit Rental Housing at Bend. If you do not wish to appear on our BEND's Friends page, let us know and you will remain anonymous.

In any donation, please note your name on the bank deposit slip or electronic transaction and press this link affordablehousing(at)bend.org.au to send us an email. Let us know if you would like a receipt for tax-deductability purposes, and please include your own email or postal address to receive this.