Our 2025 AGM — People before Property
On 13 November 2025, we gathered for our 8th Annual General Meeting — an evening filled with inspiration, gratitude, and guided by our vision of a safe and stable home for everyone with fair and practical pathways to home ownership that put People before Property.
As our Co‑Chair, Joel Larsen, said:
“Numbers on a page will always be numbers, but stories move people.”
And this year, those stories told a powerful truth — that when you put people first, you don’t just change housing outcomes, you change lives.
A Night That Moved Hearts
The premiere of Braydon’s Story was a defining moment. A proud Wiradjuri man, Braydon went from living in a share house at 22 to becoming a homeowner at 24. His journey — filled with courage, culture, and community — reminded everyone what’s possible when barriers are replaced with belief.
Pam Jackson, our Executive Director of First Nations Collaboration, reflected:
“Every time I see Braydon’s story, I feel like crying because of the significance it brings to our young ones for home ownership. It’s not only about owning a home — it’s about education, work, and sharing with family, which is a tradition in our culture.”
Braydon’s story embodies our movement in action — walking alongside people, not ahead of them, and proving that home ownership can be inclusive, empowering, and life‑changing.
From Stability to Strength
We also heard from Kamini, whose journey continues to inspire. Since purchasing her home, she’s built a life defined by confidence, creativity, and purpose.
Her words silenced the room:
“You’ve given me my life back… I’m more confident, I’m standing up for myself, and I’m learning how to choose and create my future.”
Owning her home didn’t just give Kamini stability — it gave her the freedom to dream bigger, to lead, and to thrive.
Our Impact: Turning Momentum into Movement
2025 was a year of extraordinary growth and transformation:
In total, 32 homes have now been purchased by our clients—with 14 of those purchases made in 2025, representing a 78% increase from 2024.
Altogether, 243 households have engaged in our empowerment services, with 74 “super savers” achieving their savings goals.
Revenue grew by 64%, surpassing $1 million.
Our capital fund reached $5.9 million, enabling innovative programs like the Wollongong Affordable Rent to Buy initiative.
Each number represents a life changed — a family empowered, a community strengthened, and a ripple of hope spreading across Australia.
As our Founder and Managing Director, Stephen Woodlands, reminded us,
“Every client outcome is more than a number-it’s a force for change. Small ripples surge into waves that empower communities, strengthen our social fabric and redefine what’s possible"
Leadership, Culture and Connection
The evening also celebrated the people behind the purpose — a team and board united by compassion, courage, and collaboration.
Karen Walsh, Deputy CEO, shared:
“We’ve strengthened our model, expanded our reach and built partnerships across sectors. Organisations are made up of people, and that’s what makes Head Start Homes so special.”
Kate Fenton, Chief of Client Empowerment, added:
“Every day we make a difference. Every day we empower families — and that’s something very extraordinary.”
And Natasha Kahn, Chief of Communications, reminded us of what drives the team:
“Our Tuesday gratitude moments are honestly my favourite part of the week. The sense of connection and care makes our team truly special.”
This culture of heart‑led leadership is what turns strategy into impact — and impact into movement.
Strong Governance, Shared Vision
This year, we’ve strengthened our governance by appointing our existing Directors, Joel Larsen and Josh Moyes, as Interim Co-Chairs-bringing steady leadership and continuity to our Board. We're also thrilled to welcome our four new Directors: Leanne Pilkington, Jackie Trad, Pam Jackson, and Jo Formosa-each bringing a wealth of expertise across First Nations collaboration, real estate, government policy, and housing sector innovation. We also acknowledge and thank Airlie Fox, Richard Yong and Stephen Woodlands, who continue to serve as Directors, providing invaluable experience and stability.
As our Co-Chair Josh Moyes said,
“The Board is committed to strengthening its governance to deepen our impact and advance the vision of a safe and stable home for everyone.”
A Legacy of Belief
The night closed with heartfelt reflections from members and supporters — moments that captured the pride and purpose behind every achievement.
Graham Brown, a long‑time member and our First Chair, summed it up perfectly:
“It’s just so inspiring to hear the achievements of Head Start Homes each year as you roll forward, and the way you tell the story is just so well done. Congratulations everyone.”
His words echoed through the room — a reminder that this movement isn’t just about milestones but about meaning.
And Nikki Woodlands, also a Member and mum of our Founder, shared a moment that brought the journey full circle:
“Stephen called me from a train years ago and said, ‘Mum, I think I’ve got an idea for how people can buy their own home without a deposit.’ And now I’m sitting here, with my heart so full and in awe of all the amazing client outcomes that Head Start Homes has achieved.”
Looking Ahead
With renewed energy, a strengthened board, and a growing movement, we’re stepping into 2026 ready to break down more barriers, empower more families, and continue proving that People Before Property isn’t just a motto — it’s a model for lasting change.
Join the movement.
Explore our 2025 Impact Report and see how you can help create a future where everyone has a safe and stable place to call home.
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