Marilyn found housing security after years in private rentals and years of lease terminations. She moved into Ningana Housing Co-operative in June 2024 and hasn’t looked back. At first somewhat apprehensive, Marilyn quickly felt at home and has thrived. “The community here has been incredibly welcoming and I have regained aspects of my life I had missed dearly like cooking in a proper kitchen!” Read her story.
“I was a long-term tenant in The Rocks where I also operated a small retail consultancy business. Living in a heritage listed terrace house in Merchants’ Row – the first private rental residences purpose – built in Australia in the 1800’s. I enjoyed the village atmosphere with its mix of public and private housing for over 18 years. An active member of the Rocks Chamber of Commerce I was also Vice President and then President of the Business Council of Sydney (BCS) attending regular meetings with the Lord Mayor and commercial and private property owners to rebuild life and activity in the 2000 postcode.
In 2014, I retired and moved to the Inner West where friends already lived. The best of both worlds making new friends but still close to my old life in Sydney’s CBD.
However, the years that followed were marked by instability. Since 2014 I have lived in 5 different rentals in around Rozelle and Lilyfield. Apart from that first move from The Rocks, it was never my decision to move. Rent increases, sale of property and of course the Termination without Cause option were all used as means to end my tenancies.
Despite the challenges, I found solace in community and creativity. I joined painting classes in Balmain and exhibited artwork annually. Rediscovering art brought joy and balance to my life.
It was during a chance encounter at a local coffee shop in Lilyfield that my life changed. A friend from my painting class asked about my living situation. At the time, I was grappling with yet another Termination Without Cause. Lesley listened, empathised and later introduced me to a housing collective in Annandale.
At first I was apprehensive, remembering life in Europe during the 1970s – when you are young you are more adaptable. After researching Common Equity and Ningana I filled in an application form and events moved very quickly after – Rob responded, tenant inspection with Deb, attended a monthly meeting, interview with Board all within a week and here I am!
I have been here since early June 2024 and it quickly felt like home. The community here has been incredibly welcoming and I have regained aspects of life I had missed dearly – like cooking in a proper kitchen. Since moving, I’ve had friends over for meals, made a big pot of pea and ham soup to share with neighbours, whipped up lemon curd and prepared my signature “spag bol”. For our first-floor roster meeting, I baked a chocolate torte. Ningana has given me more than a stable roof over my head. It has restored my sense of belonging, provided a community to connect with and offered me the space to continue doing what I love.”