Graduating into a new career and a new home

When Tammie Collins went back to study to make her dream career change, she thought her dream home would have to wait. But a university degree – and an award recognising her as an emerging movie costume maker – have helped Tammie, 48, of Andrews Farm, achieve both her aspirations.

Tammie’s degree made her eligible to apply for the HomeStart Graduate Loan, which is aimed at people who have a Certificate III or higher and have a smaller available deposit.

In an added bonus, the Flinders University and TAFE SA student was an award winner at the 2024 HomeStart Fashion and Costume Graduate Parade.

When her name was read out, alongside her intricate costume inspired by the Jim Henson movie Dark Crystal, Tammie was literally speechless and burst into tears.

So this year, she returned to the same awards ceremony for a `take two’ of her acceptance speech to deliver a personal thank you for helping make her career and home ownership dreams come true.

“Last year I was shocked and couldn’t speak,” Tammie said.

“I just cried, I was so excited. So I went up to the people at this year’s parade to tell them how much I appreciated the award and prize money – and I told them my news.”

Not only did the award provide Tammie valuable recognition when launching her costume designing career, it also provided a contribution towards her home loan deposit – with the award’s sponsor, HomeStart.

HomeStart CEO Andrew Mills said it was a happy twist that after winning an award supported by HomeStart, Tammie turned to HomeStart for her home loan.

“We were thrilled that we could provide the recognition for Tammie’s designs through the award – and that she felt it helped her career,” Mr Mills said.

“Then to be able to help her buy her family’s home, we have helped fulfil two dreams. That’s exactly what HomeStart is here to do.”

Tammie and husband Stephen have a HomeStart Graduate Loan with an additional Starter Loan towards upfront costs and the Shared Equity option to boost borrowing power.

“HomeStart’s support was crucial. Because I was studying and only working part-time we didn’t have the income to support a loan with another lender. Without this loan we wouldn’t have a home, which is why I was so happy to come up and say thank you,” Tammie said.

Tammie’s new home includes a detached room that she has done up as a studio, where she has worked on costumes for the 2025 horror movie Diabolic and another upcoming movie, Sundowner.