$10m spent by Queensland govt in 3 months to house 1600 renters
A new Queensland mum facing homelessness who had to seek rental aid after giving birth prematurely is thrilled with the positive outcome through the RentConnect service.
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More than 1600 Queensland renters on the brink of homelessness have received government support over the past three months, with nearly $10m spent to keep roofs over their heads.
The Queensland government has spent $9.7m towards financially supporting residents with rent payments, rent increases and bonds with help delivered 7000 times between July and September.
New mother Rachel O’Donnell had to seek rental assistance after giving birth prematurely to son Xavier.
The unexpected and complicated early labour was coupled with a new fear of becoming homeless after her lease was not renewed and she was unable to find another rental property.
Ms O’Donnell, a childcare worker for 30 years, secured a two-bedroom unit in Windsor through the government’s RentConnect service, enabling her to be close to health services for her newborn who was diagnosed with Down syndrome.
Speaking on the positive experience with the RentConnect service, Ms O’Donnell said staff member Karen “bent over backwards” for her new family.
“I cannot speak highly enough of her … she was lifesaving,’’ she said.
“The place is beautiful; it’s practically new inside, it’s secure.
“I’ve got nothing to complain about.”
Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said Queensland renters were not immune from national housing pressures.
“While we build more social and affordable homes and unlock more supply, we’re also helping renters bridge that gap and stay in their home,” she said.
“Whether you need help with a bond, or financial support to cover rent increases, there’s assistance available if you need it.”
The Queensland government is on track to outspend last financial year’s rental household assistance package, which totalled $28.5m.
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