The rollout of 42 new RentConnect officers across Queensland, including 25 in regional areas, aims to improve access to rental support services. Additionally, a new online platform is being launched to further assist renters.
This initiative is part of the Queensland Government's Homes for Queenslanders plan, which also includes measures such as rent bidding bans, a code of conduct for property management, and portable bond loans.
Nearly 10,000 Queensland households have already benefited from rental support through this plan, including 451 households in Mackay.
Labor Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan said, “I’ve fought hard to make sure that not only are we building new homes in our community, but that renters can get help when it comes to cost of living or finding a rental.
“Our investment in RentConnect officers will be helping Queenslanders find and keep a safe place to stay.”
Frontline RentConnect staff worked with more than 2,500 households in need, while more than 3,000 bond loans, more than 1,000 rental grants and more than 500 rental security subsidies were provided.
It adds to a raft of reforms introduced by the government to help the one third of Queensland households who rent.
Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon said,“One in three Queensland households rent, which is why our Homes for Queenslanders plan makes supporting renters a key pillar.
“Since we launched our Homes for Queenslanders plan, new CoreLogic data shows we’re starting to see the rental market ease, and we won’t let up when it comes to making sure people can get the cost of living help they need.”
Just recently, the government passed legislation to ban rent bidding, establish a code of conduct and start work on a portable bond scheme to allow renters to move their bond from one place to the next.
It also gives renters a fee-free option to pay rent, requiring evidence for any bond claims, limiting reletting costs and further protecting renters’ privacies by requiring 48 hours entry notice and a prescribed form for rental applications.
Employment Minister Lance McCallum said, “Access to secure housing is critical for employment stability.
“By investing in programs like RentConnect, we’re not just helping renters access housing, we’re also making sure that people can keep their homes, focus on their work, and contribute to their local communities.”
To find out more about rental support for Queenslanders head to: https://www.housing.qld.gov.au/homesforqueenslanders
Labor Candidate for Mackay, Belinda Hassan, and Employment Minister Lance McCallum met with local renter Cecily Macdonald to discuss the challenges faced by renters in the region and how the RentConnect program is helping individuals access affordable housing. Photo credit: Hannah McNamara
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