‘Inadequate’ rent assistance must be increased

19/04/2023

National housing campaign Everybody’s Home is calling on the Federal Government to boost support for renters on the lowest incomes.

The call follows a report from the Economic Inclusion Advisory Committee, which recommends increasing rent assistance and the rate of JobSeeker. 

“Renters who rely on these payments are stuck in severe rental stress. Many are skipping meals, behind on bills, and trapped in poverty. Others are being pushed to the brink of homelessness,” Everybody’s Home spokesperson Maiy Azize said.

“The Federal Government can’t ignore the housing crisis and the many people who are hurting in its Budget. Rents are through the roof and each day that goes by without action leaves more people in financial stress making unhealthy sacrifices. 

“The government must boost support for renters on the lowest incomes. Almost one in two people who get rent assistance are still in rental stress – and many people on the lowest Centrelink payments aren’t even eligible in the first place.

“The Government must also raise the rate of JobSeeker. People out of work have no chance of staying out of rental stress when they are trapped so far below the poverty line.

“After years of recommendations, it’s time for the Government to finally act.”