'An absolutely pleasant surprise': Why single mums are moving in together

In Australia's challenging rental market, single mothers are finding a practical solution by moving in together to share housing. For many, like Hayley Grimmond, the search for a secure, long-term rental for herself and her young daughter was an 18-month ordeal marked by constant rejection and periods of instability.

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All I've ever wanted is for my daughter to have the best life I can possibly give her. I was writing cover letters, I was doing everything I possibly could. It feels like I was failing.

Grimmond experienced the harsh reality of rental discrimination, enduring stays on friends' couches and in crisis accommodation. She described the situation as an "absolute shock to the system," especially having previously worked for homeless organizations. The difficulty in securing stable housing underscored the systemic challenges faced by single-parent families.

The solution emerged when Grimmond's mother suggested co-renting with another single mother. Through a private Facebook group run by the Council of Single Mothers and Their Children (CSMC), she connected with Anja Homburg. Homburg owned a home but struggled with the mortgage on a single income, despite parental support.

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And then when it happened to me, it was a shock, an absolute shock to the system.

Their shared living arrangement has proven highly successful. The two mothers quickly formed a friendship, and their daughters, Blair and Raelia, developed a close bond. Financially, the shared costs have made living "comfortable," relieving Anja of the constant stress of "counting every single dollar." Beyond finances, the mental load of motherhood, including chores and childcare, is now split, making the journey less solitary. "It's going even better than I could have hoped," Anja shared, emphasizing their enjoyment of each other's company.

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The stress was enormous.

This trend highlights a broader issue: single mothers are disproportionately affected by the cost of living and housing crises. Reports indicate nearly one in three single parents live in poverty, and they are four times more likely to experience homelessness. The shared housing model offers not only economic benefits but also crucial social and emotional support, creating a more stable and nurturing environment for both mothers and children.

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She is the reason that I'm not counting every single dollar I have.