Summary
If you’re struggling to pay your rent, you might feel overwhelmed and stressed. Unfortunately, many of us are just a few steps away from homelessness, but there are steps we can take to help protect ourselves from this.
Homelessness in Australia is a growing issue that affects not just those without a roof over their heads, but entire communities. During National Homelessness Week, coming up 5 to 11 August 2024, we hope to dispel some of the myths and encourage Homelessness Action NOW!
Are you worried about keeping the roof over your head?
You’re not alone. We are in the middle of a housing crisis and the cost-of-living keeps rising.
We know that more than 600,000 Australian households are experiencing housing stress. If this is you, and you are struggling, please seek out support ‒ the worst thing you can do is nothing.
Steps you can take to keep your tenancy
Here are some tips to help you stay in your home and avoid eviction.
- Make rent your number one priority payment – this is your home! Your security. Securing a new lease after defaulting in this tight rental market will be incredibly difficult. Make it the first bill you pay every pay cycle. Or set up a direct debit for payment with your real estate agent.
- Keep in in regular contact with your landlord or rental agent and look after your property. If there’s an inspection coming up, take the time to clean your home and maintain your garden.
- Have you fallen behind on payments? If you are about to go into arrears, or are already in rent arrears, inform your landlord or rental agent and let them know you want to negotiate a repayment plan. When you talk to them to them, explain your circumstances and ask for them to take your hardship into consideration. Explain how you will be able to pay ongoing rent and catch up on any missed payments. Keep in touch so they know what is happening.
- If you can’t come to an agreement, call your nearest Tenancy Advice and Advocacy Service for free advice.
Financial support available
Looking to free up some money for your rent? You might qualify for financial assistance to help you get back on track.
- See if you qualify for a utility relief grant to help pay your utility bills.
- Explore emergency relief for food, transport, phone or chemist vouchers; try using the Ask Izzy website. askizzy.org.au
- The Department of Communities and Justice offers Tenancy Assistance for clients in a private rental property who are in rent and/or water arrears.
- Have you had a major financial setback? You may be able to access a Rent Choice subsidy for a period of up to three years. The NSW criteria include illness or job loss, relocating due to domestic and family violence, being a Veteran, or if you’re aged 16–24.
- Call the Way Forward on 1300 045 502. This free service can support tenants to manage debts, and they can arrange a debt repayment plan on your behalf.
- Check if you’re eligible for a Centrelink advance payment. Centrelink advance payments are interest-free loans available to people on a Centrelink income. They are generally available twice every 12 months.
- Check if you’re eligible for Rent Assistance via Centrelink. You may also be able to have your rent payments taken directly from your Centrelink payment through Centrepay.
- Access free, confidential help by calling the National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007.
How does Connecting Home support tenants?
Social Futures’ Connecting Home program supports people who are homeless, or at risk of homelessness, to identify and source sustainable housing. We also provide support to tenants who are struggling or are at risk of losing their tenancy.
Our 1800 intake line (1800 048 310) can refer you to services such as mental health, financial counselling, legal advice, and crisis supports.
We’re here to support you to doing everything you possibly can to stay housed.
Everyone should have a safe, secure and healthy place to call home, regardless of their postcode or their bank balance.
What if I am in crisis?
Connecting Home is not a service that provides support to people in crisis. Anyone who is feeling unsafe should call 000, the Mental Health Access Line 1800 011 511 or Lifeline 131114. Connecting Home does not provide temporary / crisis accommodation. If you are homeless and need emergency accommodation please call Link2Home 1800 152 152.
