The prospect of a new home is an exciting one. Moving into a new place brings fresh opportunities, a new community and, if you’re a person with a disability, the potential for a more accessible living space. While the end result is one to look forward to, moving house is always a complicated process.
Finding the right home, packing up your things, and getting everything to your new living space is quite the challenge. And, if you, or a person you know, is also living with a disability, things can feel even more overwhelming.
Luckily there are resources to support you and steps you can take to create a simpler, safer, and more supportive moving experience.
In this article we’ve covered all of your bases for you, including:
It goes without saying that your new home should enhance your day-to-day living.
Whether you’re planning to live alone in a house, in shared living, or in a non-supported or supported unit or apartment it’s always a good idea to check if the new property meets all of your unique needs before making the big move.
For a smooth and streamlined house search, create a checklist of your essential requirements.
Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
In addition to your home requirements, it’s also important to check out the health care, support and well-being services available within close proximity to your new space.
Some things to consider:
If you haven’t yet found the right home, here are some handy resources to help you through the house hunting process:
Every person, including those living with a disability, has the right to choose accommodation in the location they desire. However, it isn’t uncommon for people with disabilities to experience some barriers when renting a new home. Here are some key things to know about your housing rights:
Landlords and agents cannot refuse to rent you a property or room or charge extra because you have an assistance dog.
The Disability Discrimination Act makes it against the law for real estate agents, landlords or other providers of accommodation to:
Tenants with a disability may request the landlord make reasonable accommodations to rules, policies, practices, or services that provide equal opportunity for use and enjoyment of the rental accommodation / common areas.
Bringing in professional support to help you pack up your things can offer huge relief throughout the moving process. From wrapping, packing and moving your belongings, to unpacking at the other end, finding the right removalists can make all the difference. Depending what city or state you live in, the below can help to find local moving companies in your area.
What you need to consider to find the right moving company:
To understand exactly what happens on moving day, see our detailed guide to loading, transporting and unloading.
One of the greatest barriers for anyone moving home is affordability. There are different types of rental assistance available to persons with a disability including rent support and bond payments. These vary from state to state, so it’s always best to check what’s available in your state or territory.
Find out more on the Australian Government Disability Gateway.
Upmove is Australia’s trusted choice for removalist and moving company services, helping thousands of customers move homes, furniture, cars, motorcycles, and more. Since 2017, we’ve been delivering reliable, affordable, and well-reviewed moving services across Australia. Our focus has always been on making moving simple and stress-free — from booking experienced removalists to completing your delivery with care. With Upmove, you get professional service, fixed prices, and peace of mind on every move.
Upmove acknowledges Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and recognises the continuing connection to lands, waters and communities. We pay our respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures; and to Elders past and present.
