Assessment and Action

Housing Problems

Housing is an essential service for families and is usually a family’s single largest cost. Accessing affordable housing can be challenging especially if a family can’t provide tenancy references, has a poor credit rating or has significant debts. Some families may have other barriers to finding housing, such as disabilities or needing to house a large or extended family group.

Social housing, either through state government housing departments or community housing schemes can be an option for these families. Because housing is in short supply, families may have to go on a waiting list. If a family is in urgent need, they may be able to access priority housing even if they have not been on the waiting list.

The criteria for housing provision may change from time to time, so it is important that if families are on the waiting list they keep in touch with the housing department about the services offered and their eligibility.

State housing departments may also be able to help with bond money and limited rent assistance if a family is behind in rent payments.

To check housing provisions and eligibility in your state, look for links on your local Shelter site. Shelter is a national advocacy organisation concerned with housing provision.

Where families are renting, especially on the private rental market, they may experience difficulties meeting rent payments or complying with the expectations or their landlord or agent.

Tenancy Services can provide information to help clarify the family’s legal position, and provide assistance if action is being taken to end their tenancy.

Go to your state Tenants Union to locate local tenancy advice services, and fact sheets about tenancy law in your state.