Leichhardt Uniting Church

Who runs Epworth House?

Epworth House is under the supervision and management of the Emerging Generations Worker, supported by the Epworth House Management Team, Leichhardt Uniting Church ministers, and Resident Assistants. Leichhardt Uniting Church Council is the oversight body of Epworth House, and the individuals and teams listed above.

How long can I live at Epworth House?

There is no restriction in how long a resident may stay in the Epworth House community, as long as they can still fulfil the requirements of the house.

What is the Uniting Church in Australia? What are it’s beliefs?

The Uniting Church in Australia Website can answer this best. To understand the theology and mission of the Uniting Church in Australia, it is recommended that you read the Basis of Union.

What is the application process?

For the application process, click here.

Who can apply?

Anyone who is currently studying or will be studying at a tertiary institution (or equivalent) and has an understanding of Epworth House's mission and purpose is welcome to apply.

I’m moving out of home for the first time, can I still apply?

Yes! Epworth House was established to support students transitioning to life away from home. Many of our residents are in this situation, and Epworth House provides a welcoming environment to help them settle into this new stage of life. With the support of the Leichhardt Uniting Church community, residents find both connection and stability as they navigate their studies and personal growth.

Is there an age limit?

Residents must be at least 18 years old when moving into Epworth House. While there is no strict upper age limit, most residents are between 18 and 25. If you are over 25 and considering applying, we encourage you to reflect on whether you will feel comfortable and connected with younger residents, as they may be in a different stage of life.

I am not currently involved with the Uniting Church in Australia, can I still apply?

Epworth House welcomes people from diverse faith backgrounds and beliefs. Many residents have come from different Christian denominations, while others are exploring faith or do not identify as Christian. Anyone is welcome to apply, provided they are open to engaging with the house community and Leichhardt Uniting Church.

Respect is essential in all discussions about faith and beliefs. Residents are expected to foster a respectful environment and have an understanding of the beliefs of the Uniting Church in Australia.

When can I move in?

Move-in dates are flexible and will be determined by the Epworth House Manager in consultation with the Epworth House Team.

What happens when I move in?

When you move in, you'll meet your new housemates and get an introduction to the living arrangements. This includes guidelines on room usage, communal spaces, and general house rules to help create a welcoming and well-organised community. You will be assigned a Resident Assistant to help you with any questions or concerns.

What is the Rent?

For information regarding rent costs , please contact the House Manager (paige@leichhardtuniting.org.au).

What other living expenses will there be?

Utilities (water, electricity, gas, internet) and communal items (such as toilet paper, dishwashing liquid, general cleaning supplies) are included in your weekly rent. Residents are asked to be good stewards of communal resources and to be considerate of their impact on others and the environment. This includes being responsible in turning off lights/fans/dripping taps/electronics that are not in use.

What are my day-to-day expectations?

A key part of what makes Epworth House special is the time residents spend talking with one another, creating opportunities to form supportive friendships.

Day-to-day, residents will be expected to work within a chore team to complete basic living and cleaning tasks, and be respectful and friendly to their fellow housemates.

What kind of commitments are expected?

Epworth House is more than just a share house – it is an intentional Christian Student Community, which comes with a certain level of commitment. Residents are expected to allocate time in their schedules to engage in house activities and events hosted by Leichhardt Uniting Church. Previous residents have actively participated in areas such as social justice, student leadership, and community organising.

Leichhardt Uniting Church is a vibrant, growing community that loves to celebrate the creative talents people bring with them. While residents aren't expected to participate in every activity, they are expected to engage as much as possible to enrich thier experience and contribute to the broader community.

What is a Safe Place and Affirming Congregation?

As a Safe Place and an Affirming Congregation, Leichhardt Uniting Church is aware of the issues concerning LGBTQIA+ civil rights within the Church. LUC therefore works towards the full acceptance and ministry of LGBTQIA+ people within the Family of God. In doing so, we invite all in the Body of Christ to journey with us in moving beyond the deadlocked fight over same-sex relationships. And, as a "graced people" to join us in choosing humility over hostility, encouraging all into becoming a reconciled people with God and one another. You can Click here for more information on issues around LGBTQIA+ people and the Uniting Church, and here for more information on the Uniting Church's Safe Church policy.

Am I expected to attend church?

Yes, residents are expected to attend services at Leichhardt Uniting Church on a regular basis. LUC's weekly Sunday worship services are held at 10am and 6:30pm. The church has a vibrant congregation of young people in their 20s and 30s, and the services are generally tailored to this demographic. Many Epworth House residents attend the evening service, which is followed by supper.

If your job requires you to work on Sundays and you are unable to attend, before applying for residency we encourage you to consider whether this commitment aligns with the expectations of living at Epworth House. We want to ensure that all residents can engage fully with the community and its activities.

I have a question that isn’t answered here. What do I do?

For any additional questions or information, please contact the Epworth House Manager at paige@leichhardtuniting.org.au and they will respond to you as soon as possible.