Fairer public housing rent policy to encourage work

The Palaszczuk Government has ended one of the cruellest policies introduced under the Newman-Nicholls Government with a new public housing rent policy to come into force on 5 December 2016.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said that the Fair Rent Policy would benefit people with disabilities, carers and people trying to further themselves through education.

“The LNP disadvantaged already vulnerable people by assessing a number of payments and allowances as income in determining rent,” Mr de Brenni said.

“The changes lacked compassion, lacked consideration and lacked common sense.

“This was another kick to the guts for vulnerable people trying to get ahead.”

Mr de Brenni said seniors, people with a disability and carers are amongst the groups who will benefit from the Palaszczuk Government’s new Fair Rent Policy.

“Across the state the new Fair Rent Policy will benefit around 40,000 public housing tenants with an average decrease of between $5 - $10 in their weekly rent.

“While reductions are dependent on household circumstances, around 38,000 seniors receiving a Pension Supplement are likely to see a savings of $8 a week.

“People on mobility allowances will save an average of $11 a week and 7,000 carers will have around $7 a week back in their pockets.”

Mr de Brenni said that the Fair Rent Policy would also support people who are trying to gain skills for the workforce.

“The previous government’s heartless rent hikes meant that people receiving education or employment supplements were punished for their efforts.

“This government isn’t going to punish people who try to gain skills to get a job.”

“Labor fundamentally believes in supporting people into the workforce.

“We want to tear down barriers to employment, not put up roadblocks,” he said.

Public housing tenants who have been affected by the change in assessments will be advised by letter of their amended rent amount after 5 December.

Further information about the Fair Rent Policy can be found by calling 13 74 68 or online at www.hpw.qld.gov.au.

[ENDS] 19 November, 2016

Media contact: Tristan Douglas 0447 164 197