Affordable housing outcomes rarely rest on a single organisation acting alone. They depend on the right partners bringing complementary strengths to the table, and the partnership between EchoRealty and the City of Canada Bay Council is a strong example of how that collaboration can help deliver lasting housing outcomes.
Since 2024, EchoRealty has managed Council’s affordable housing portfolio, which today comprises 39 homes across Strathfield, North Strathfield, Drummoyne and Mortlake. In areas where rental costs continue to place increasing pressure on low- and moderate-income households, these homes provide an important source of affordable housing. While Council retains ownership of the assets, EchoRealty provides the specialist expertise required to ensure the portfolio continues to deliver affordable housing outcomes for the community.
For Councils, the challenge does not end once affordable housing is delivered. Success depends on the ongoing management of homes, residents and assets. EchoRealty manages the day-to-day operation of the portfolio, including housing allocations, tenancy management, repairs and maintenance, compliance reporting, resident engagement and support for vulnerable households. The focus is on ensuring homes are well maintained, residents are well supported and Council’s affordable housing objectives continue to be achieved over the long term.
The partnership has also helped ensure housing opportunities reach the people they are intended to serve. Through eligibility assessments, affordable rent setting and tenancy management, the portfolio provides housing options for a range of local workers and households who may otherwise struggle to afford housing in the area.
However, the relationship extends beyond operational management. EchoRealty also provides strategic advice to help Council strengthen and grow its affordable housing portfolio. Drawing on its understanding of local housing markets, affordable housing policy and tenancy trends, EchoRealty works alongside Council to identify opportunities, inform decision making and ensure the portfolio remains aligned with local housing needs.
That combination of operational delivery and strategic advice has helped build a trusted partnership. Since EchoRealty’s appointment, the portfolio has grown from 26 properties to 39 homes, reflecting Council’s ongoing commitment to affordable housing and confidence in the partnership supporting it.
Nick Hubble, Development Manager Property, Canada Bay Council said:
“What we value in EchoRealty is not just that they manage our properties well, but that they understand what Council is trying to achieve through affordable housing. They provide the day-to-day management expertise we rely on, while also helping us make informed decisions about the future of the portfolio. That has made them a genuine partner in delivering affordable housing outcomes for our community.”
EchoRealty has applied a similar approach with local government partners including Willoughby and Bayside Councils, tailoring its services to each Council’s specific affordable housing strategy rather than applying a one size fits all model.
Charlie Souma, General Manager Affordable Housing at EchoRealty said:
“The demand for affordable housing continues to grow, but delivering successful outcomes requires more than providing homes. It requires the right systems, expertise and partnerships to support residents, maintain assets and help Councils achieve their long-term housing objectives. Our role is to work alongside Councils as a trusted partner, ensuring affordable housing continues to deliver value for communities well into the future.”
As more Councils consider how to activate and expand affordable housing portfolios, the Canada Bay partnership highlights an important lesson: building affordable housing is only the first step. Long term success depends on professional management, strong resident outcomes and trusted partnerships that help affordable housing assets deliver their full potential for communities.
