The tragic case of Jordie Hume, whose life ended in despair after being rejected from the public housing waitlist, has sparked urgent calls for government departments to work more closely with families in crisis situations. This heartbreaking story underscores the need for a more compassionate and inclusive approach to public housing and mental health support, particularly for those who are most vulnerable.

Jordie's life was marked by a series of challenges, including the loss of his mother and an eviction from the public housing property where they had lived together for many years. His sister, Gail Thorn, and her husband, Leonard, witnessed Jordie's downward spiral and believe that better communication and involvement from the Department of Communities could have made a significant difference.


The Department of Communities' decision to evict Jordie was described as a 'last resort,' citing his alleged verbal and physical threats, as well as property damage. However, Gail and Leonard recall a different side of Jordie, one that was generous and kind-hearted, often to his own detriment. They argue that a more nuanced understanding of Jordie's circumstances, including his Aboriginal heritage and the close-knit nature of his community, could have led to a more supportive response.


Following his eviction, Jordie's mental health deteriorated, and despite seeking help from a psychiatric clinic, he was denied the chance to rejoin the public housing waitlist due to outstanding debts and behavioural concerns. The communication from the Department was not only insufficient but also lacked clarity on how Jordie could rectify his situation.


The family's plea for greater involvement is a call to action for government departments to recognise the critical role that families and support networks play in the lives of those struggling with housing and mental health issues. It is a reminder that behind every public housing application and eviction notice, there is a human story that deserves attention and empathy.

Veteran housing advocate Betsy Buchanan has echoed the family's concerns, pointing out the missed opportunities for inter-agency collaboration and support for Jordie, who was a recognised victim of severe childhood abuse. Buchanan's insights highlight the complex interplay between past trauma, mental health, and housing stability and the need for a more integrated and trauma-informed approach to public housing policy.

The broader implications of Jordie's story are now being examined in the Supreme Court, where a legal challenge to public housing evictions is being heard. The outcome of this case could have far-reaching consequences for how the government handles evictions and supports its tenants.


As we await the court's decision, it is clear that Jordie's case is not an isolated incident but a symptom of a larger systemic issue. Gail and Leonard's call for change is a powerful reminder that we must prioritise communication, compassion, and support for individuals and families navigating the public housing system.

The tragic outcome of Jordie's story is a wake-up call for all of us. It is time for government departments to work hand-in-hand with families, to listen to their concerns, and to provide the necessary support to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future. As a community, we must advocate for policies that recognise the dignity and humanity of every individual, ensuring that no one else has to endure the pain that Jordie and his family went through.
Members of the Seniors Discount Club, we invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with public housing and mental health support. Have you or your loved ones faced similar challenges? What changes would you like to see in the way government departments handle these critical issues? Your insights are valuable as we continue to push for a system that serves the needs of all Australians, especially the most vulnerable among us.