The Allan Labor Government is delivering on a key promise of the landmark Housing Statement, with more support for Victorian renters in rental stress.
Minister for Consumer Affairs Gabrielle Williams today launched the $7.8 million Rental Stress Support Package at South East Community Links, which will receive a grant to support around 1,400 adults and 3,000 children who rent in the south-eastern suburbs.
Around 5 per cent of Victorian households are facing serious rental stress, with demand increasing for organisations that provide information and advice, financial counselling, advocacy and legal assistance to Victorian renters.
The Rental Stress Support Package will help families stay in their homes and prevent homelessness, and builds on the Housing Statement commitment to back the critical work of community organisations addressing the high demand for rental assistance we know is being seen across Victoria.
The other organisations receiving funding are Anglicare Victoria, Launch Housing, Justice Connect, Housing for the Aged Action Group, Child and Family Services Ballarat, Quantum Support Services and Mallee Family Care.
Tenants Victoria was also selected in partnership with local not-for-profit organisations ARC Justice, Barwon Community Legal Service, Peninsula Community Legal Centre and WEstjustice.
The package builds on a $4.74 million investment to support Consumer Affairs Victoria's tenancy programs, including the Tenancy and Retirement Housing Assistance and Advocacy Programs.
These programs helped more than 8,800 Victorian renters last financial year with information and advice, negotiation support and assistance with VCAT hearings.
As stated by Minister for Consumer Affairs Gabrielle Williams
"Our Rental Stress Support Package will provide extra help to Victorians experiencing rental stress, building on the more than 130 rental reforms we've already delivered to strengthen renters' rights."
"The community organisations supported through the Rental Stress Support Package do critical work to support Victorian renters, and we're proud to support them as we address the housing supply crisis through our Housing Statement."
