MELBOURNE: A charity has opened its first Haven Foundation residence, delivering 16 long-term supported homes for people living with psychosocial disability.

The new Clearview development combines self-contained accommodation with 24/7 onsite mental health support, creating another pathway for people who are ready to leave hospital but still require ongoing assistance in the community.

The $5.8 million project has been backed by the State Government, including $5 million through SA Health and $800,000 from Housing SA.

Residents will have their own one-bedroom apartments, with affordable rent linked to income, as well as access to communal spaces and trained mental health and peer support workers.

The model is designed to provide a stable long-term home while helping residents build independence and continue their recovery outside a hospital environment.

Haven Clearview will also provide an option for people transitioning from mental health rehabilitation beds at Modbury Hospital, The Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Noarlunga Hospital.

As of September, 25 patients remained in metropolitan public hospitals because of NDIS-related discharge delays, compared with 119 in September 2022.

Minister for Health and Wellbeing Blair Boyer said stable housing could play an important role in helping people continue their recovery.

“Having a safe and stable home is critical to recovery. This new facility will provide people living with psychosocial disability the support they need to live independently while remaining connected to their community,” Minister Boyer said.

SA Health Chief Psychiatrist Associate Professor Melanie Turner said supported accommodation could also help reduce unnecessary stays and admissions to hospital.

The Clearview residence is the first Haven Foundation Australia facility outside Victoria.

Haven Foundation Australia, a subsidiary of Mind Australia, operates a model combining long-term housing with mental health and psychosocial disability support.

Mind Australia CEO Denise Cumming said the opening would give residents stability while supporting greater independence.

“Haven Clearview will provide South Australians with the stability, support and opportunity to build a fulfilling life in their own home and community,” Ms Cumming said.

The new facility follows other investment in supported mental health accommodation in South Australia, including the 24-bed Regency Green facility established in 2022 for NDIS participants living with psychosocial disability.