Bridging Housing and Health Inequities: A Qualitative Study on Potential Solutions From the Perspectives of Recently Arrived Migrants and Refugees in Australia.

ISSUE ADDRESSED: Housing is a critical social determinant of health for migrant and refugee populations, with housing inequalities leading to significant health disparities. This study aimed to explore the perspectives of recently arrived migrants and refugees on potential solutions to address housing and related health inequities.

METHODS

This qualitative study recruited thirty recently arrived migrants and refugees residing in Greater Western Sydney, Australia, using purposive and snowball sampling primarily through community organisations, settlement and migrant support services, and social media platforms. Participants completed semi-structured interviews, and an inductive approach to thematic analysis was employed to identify contextual patterns and themes.

RESULTS

Three major themes were identified: (1) Structural and policy reforms to address housing inequities, including simplifying rental processes, regulating rent control and tenant protections, and increasing affordable housing supply; (2) Integrated housing and health support systems for equitable outcomes, encompassing emergency housing support, financial subsidies, health-focused housing improvements, and integrated housing and mental health services; and (3) Community-based housing and social integration initiatives for health equity, involving settlement and housing literacy programs, and culturally tailored support and community engagement initiatives.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings highlight the importance of multisectoral solutions that combine systemic policy reforms, cross-sectoral service coordination, and community-driven initiatives to address the housing and health inequities experienced by recently arrived migrants and refugees. SO WHAT?: Embedding the lived experiences and priorities of these communities within housing and health strategies is essential for advancing health equity and improving outcomes for migrant and refugee populations.