Brandon in his home.

For Brandon, the journey to stable housing has been more than just a change of address – it has been a transformation of life, independence, and identity.

Brandon entered the care of the Department for Child Protection (formerly Families SA) early in life. Around the age of 12, he moved into a Junction-supported home in Christies Beach.

“I was with Families SA first, then moved into Junction housing,” Brandon recalls. “That was about eight years ago.”

He remained in that home until he was 17, when he transitioned into a Supported Independent Living Services (SILS) property in Seaford Meadows.

While the transition came with challenges, it also offered Brandon valuable opportunities. One of the most significant was gaining his driver’s license – a milestone that opened doors to employment and greater independence.

“They helped with driving lessons, which was huge. I needed my license to get a job. It took a while, but with support from Junction and my family, I got it.”

Now 20, Brandon is settling into his new home – part of the Oaklands Green development, South Australia’s largest social housing regeneration project in decades.

Located in Oaklands Park, the development is a landmark initiative led by Junction and Housing Renewal Australia, in partnership with the SA Housing Trust. It will deliver more than 680 new homes, including 235 social housing dwellings, with a focus on sustainability, community connection, and long-term affordability.

“I don’t have to worry about being moved on. That’s a big deal,” Brandon says.

The stability of his new home has had a ripple effect on every part of his life. He is now working 20 hours a week as a gardener through a NDIS-supported program, managing his responsibilities, and enjoying the quiet companionship of his cat, Olive.

“It helps me focus on work and keeping everything running smoothly,” Brandon says. “It’s a motivator to keep up with bills and responsibilities.”

“It’s been a long road, but I’m really proud of where I’ve ended up.”