This paper uses data from a case study of mental health reform in South Australia (2000-2005) to consider perceptions on housing related problems experienced by people with a psychiatric disability, as compared with ‘problems’ represented within policies and policy debates. The case study included qualitative interviews (n=31) and focus groups (n=8) with mental health service user and care representatives, NGOs and public servants across the health, disability and housing sectors. It also involved participation observation of key NGOs across the health and housing sector (n=52) and a review of mental health and housing policies across 2000-2005.