But a new snapshot of our region suggests even this might be out of reach for a growing number of people on low incomes.

The Anglicare survey found on a given weekend, just 79 properties across the northern region of NSW (that’s Tamworth, Armidale, Inverell and Moree) were affordable and appropriate for people living on income support payments, without placing them in housing stress.

Housing stress kicks in when more than 30 per cent of a household’s income is spent on rent or mortgage payments.

You’d have to say it’s a combination of factors that contribute to the problem, including policies at all levels of government. 

So, does that mean there’s a need for a co-ordinated approach to fixing the issue?

 Of course, because a safe and affordable place to live should be seen as a basic right, not an unobtainable dream.

And with an election looming, now is the time to raise it as an election issue.

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JUST a note: Bakers Delight stores across the region are “pinking up” for a worthy cause –  to raise 

$1.5 million for Breast Cancer Network Australia.

Every cent raised through the sale of pink buns will go towards supporting Australians affected by breast cancer.

Staggeringly, every day 43 women in Australia will be told they have breast cancer and seven will lose their lives to the disease.

Nearly 16,000 Australians will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year alone.

But you can help them on their journey, with some of the money raised through the pink bun campaign going towards the My Journey Kit – an information pack given to people newly diagnosed with breast cancer.

Since its inception 11 years ago, the campaign has raised over $15 million for breast cancer support. 

The campaign across NSW and the ACT runs until May 11.