Stephen Woodlands
Founder & Managing Director
Head Start Homes
Stephen Woodlands is a social entrepreneur and the Founder and Managing Director of Head Start Homes. His personal journey from living in a crisis shelter and social housing has shaped his purpose to create a world where everyone has access to a safe and stable home.
As a disruptor in the housing sector, Stephen works to dismantle barriers and create more equal access to homeownership. His efforts ensure that Head Start Homes' mostly First Nations and single mum clients are empowered and have the resources and support necessary to successfully achieve their home ownership dreams.
Sessions
Day 2
9:00
Keynote: Expanding Pathways to First Nations Home Ownership
Supporting First Nations households to move from social housing and private rentals into appropriate, sustainable home ownership
Addressing structural barriers through culturally informed financial capability, savings readiness, deposit solutions and long‑term support
The role of government, Aboriginal organisations and lenders working in partnership to unlock scalable and sustainable pathways
Introducing our new and emerging models, including Affordable Rent‑to‑Buy, that bridge the gap between renting and home ownership
Stephen Woodlands, Founder and Managing Director, Head Start Homes
Pam Jackson, Executive Director - First Nations Collaboration, Head Start Homes
Debbie Avery, Manager Home Ownership, Policy and Evidence, Aboriginal Housing Office NSW