The program has been developed along the lines of Homeshare London and Homeshare Australia whereby younger people, known as ‘home sharers’ live with older people and in exchange for 10 hours of support per week (helping with chores and shopping) they live rent free.

The Port Macquarie-Hastings region has one of the highest ageing populations in Australia, as 32 per cent of residents are over 60-years-old compared with 20 per cent in the state. In the Port Macquarie-Hastings Council area 28 per cent of households contain only one person.

The region is also experiencing an increasing student population with the development of Charles Sturt University.

Port Macquarie Senior Citizens Centre secretary Sue Skane believes the program could be beneficial for elderly people. 

A lot of people rely on help as they get older because they often can no longer drive vehicles to get to the shops or to medical appointments. 

Mrs Skane said it could be mutually beneficially for both people involved.

“From a companion point of view they are providing company for one another, as it can be quite lonely if you live alone,” she said. 

She said it can be hard to look after yourself, and cooking for one person can be a challenge.

“Rather than a person resorting to an egg and a piece of toast, having another in the house encourages both parties to be a bit more creative and make meals with more nutritional value.” 

Mrs Skane hopes that the two people can meet to ensure that they will be able to live in harmony. 

“There need to be a few set household rules,” she said. 

The council will release additional information if the grant is approved.