The Barbers originally lived in Melbourne, but when Jade Barber's mother needed to be moved into an aged care facility in 2018, the State Trustees sold the Barbers' home to cover the cost.

Mrs Barber said after experiencing a period of homelessness, a 109-year-old Eaglehawk basement sounded like a great move - and the advertisement said it was 'Bendigo's most liveable basement'.

But the reality was that the space was anything but that.

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Mrs Barber said there was no ventilation inside of the property, with mould growing, excessive dusty air, and no natural light.

During the earthquake in September, parts of the old roof became unstable and rubble continues to fall to this day.

"It has been the biggest nightmare that I have ever faced," Mrs Barber said. "I'm beyond words for it."

Mrs Barber, who is listed as the caretaker of the site, said her family was forced to move into one of the property owner's caravans parked at the back of the site for their safety.

She said she developed asthma as a result of the conditions, and her and her husband Phil's mental health deteriorated.

Both previously held stable and successful employment in Melbourne, but Mrs Barber said they were now unable to work due to their health issues.

Mrs Barber said her young son Beau was also missing school as a result of the challenges.

The Barbers have sought support from a range of Bendigo services and members of government but their housing situation has not improved.

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The family has also not been able to come to an agreement to resolve the issues with the owner.

The Barbers have been told the caravan they are staying in will be moved away from the site on January 14.

Mrs Barber said they would either become homeless again or be forced to move back into the unsafe basement.

"I've never felt so invalid as a person in my life," she said. "I have been trying my hardest to pull my family together back on this road.

"We didn't deserve any of this. We thought our lives would be better."

Mrs Barber said she hoped their story highlighted the region's housing crisis.

"I want people to be aware that this is happening in their community," she said. "We are not the only ones.

"It's not acceptable. I hope there are people who can support us and see what we're going through during this traumatic time."

If you would like to get in contact with the Barbers, email addynews@austcommunitymedia.com.au

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