From Setback to Security: Kiara and Angus’ Journey to Home Ownership in Hedland

May 29, 2025

For Kiara and Angus, the road to home ownership wasn’t smooth, but it was worth every twist and turn.

Their journey with the Hedland Aboriginal Home Ownership Program (HAHOP) began years ago, though not without its challenges. Their first encounter with the program left them disheartened. The process felt confusing, and the support they needed just wasn’t there—so they walked away. At the time, renting seemed like the simpler path.

Fast forward to last year, when the couple’s rental lease wasn’t renewed. Faced with uncertainty but armed with savings and a renewed determination, Kiara and Angus made a bold decision—to try again.

This time, things were different. Angela, the Home Ownership Coordinator at Bloodwood Tree Association Inc, welcomed them with open arms and guided them through the process with genuine care. Kiara and Angus credit Angela with turning everything around—streamlining their application, helping them understand the lending process, and even acting as a go-between with Keystart, the Department of Communities, and Foundation Housing.

Thanks to that collaboration, Kiara and Angus were able to move into their future home as tenants while they waited for the purchase to settle. It wasn’t the original plan, but it worked. And it meant they wouldn’t be without a roof over their heads during the transition.

Their new home—a refurbished four-bedroom house on Boogalla Street—quickly became more than just shelter. It was a foundation for their future. They fell in love with the property for its spacious yard, solid brick construction, and especially the kitchen—Angus was sold on the kitchen right away.

Settling into the neighbourhood, Angus has already met many of his neighbours and says the area feels safe and well-connected, with good access to schools and shops. It’s exactly the kind of place they hoped to raise a family.

Still, the settlement process wasn’t without stress. As first-time buyers, navigating legal documents without a broker was daunting. “It’s the one part where we felt the most alone,” they admit. But they got through it—with perseverance and a few late-night readings of paperwork they barely understood. Support from Foundation Housing and Nicola, helped ease the pressure—ensuring the home was ready for tenancy just before Christmas.

They ended up securing their mortgage through Keystart. With its quick pre-approval process and low deposit requirements, it was the best fit for their tight timeline. And while they’re aware of the higher interest rate, Angus sees opportunity: “We’ve already got equity from the capped purchase price. That gives us room to refinance down the track.”

Now that they’re settled, Kiara and Angus are paying it forward. They’re encouraging other Indigenous people in Hedland to take a chance on HAHOP.

“Buckle down,” says Angus. “Save. Clean your bank accounts up. Work hard—even take extra shifts if you can—until you get the approval and sale process happening.”

Their story is a powerful reminder: the path to home ownership may not be easy, but with the right support and determination, it’s possible. And thanks to HAHOP, it’s a dream that more Indigenous families in Hedland can reach.