The housing crisis in Kiama has reached a disturbing low, highlighted by a property advertised for rent at $420 per week despite appearing uninhabitable. Photos of the home reveal severe disrepair, offering a stark example of the challenges faced by vulnerable renters in the region.

This crisis is not limited to isolated properties. Across the Illawarra, rising rents and limited availability are forcing working individuals and families into precarious living situations. Even those with steady employment are increasingly finding themselves living in their cars.

Houses like this are being rented for $420 per week. Its a disgrace. The system is failing our vulnerable

For local filmmakers Sharon Lewis and Richard Jones, this harsh reality became heartbreakingly clear during their daily beach walks with their dog.

“We started to notice more and more people living in their cars,” Sharon said. “A lot of them seemed to be working, with work clothes hanging in the back window or working on laptops.”

This observation inspired Sharon and Richard to create Frances, a short film that highlights the hidden faces of homelessness and seeks to challenge common misconceptions.

The filmmakers, who have spent the past 15 years producing music videos, wanted their return to film to tell a story that resonates with everyone. Their focus? Women over 50, the fastest growing demographic of homeless Australians.

“Most people assume homelessness is linked to mental illness or addiction,” Sharon said. “But today, anyone can become homeless due to circumstances beyond their control, even if they’re working.”

The film follows Frances, a university lecturer who loses her rental accommodation to the short term holiday market. Despite her resilience and work ethic, Frances faces insurmountable challenges in securing a new home due to her single income and her refusal to abandon her beloved dog.

"Frances" award winning lead actor Juliet Scrine on location

“Her story reflects the harsh realities of housing instability,” Sharon explained. “It’s not just about a roof over your head, it’s about navigating a system that doesn’t prioritise vulnerable people.

"The film also has a local link, with Kiama resident Meryll Faulkner, from Making Faces Makeup Studio, working as the makeup artist for the production. Meryll’s involvement highlights the Illawarra’s creative talent and underscores the community’s support for telling this important story.

'I loved working on this wonderful production. It’s so good to see the focus on an important issue that affects so many,' says Meryll."

The property in Kiama exemplifies the challenges faced by renters in a market where affordability is increasingly out of reach.

Sharon and Richard’s film is a call to action, not only to break stereotypes about homelessness but to demand systemic change.

“It’s not just about telling Frances’ story,” Sharon said. “It’s about giving a voice to the countless people who could easily be her.”

Meanwhile as properties like the one in Kiama continue to surface, the community must ask itself: How can we do better for those most in need?