‘I really had no idea of the help available’

Last updated: 

2 April 2024 1:36PM  

First published: 

27 August 2024 1:36PM

When the rent on Kim’s home in Upper Coomera was increased late last year, she wasn’t sure how she would cope. She’d been living in the same home for 14 years, but her wage couldn’t stretch any further.

‘I work full-time as a vocational trainer and I still struggle to make ends meet,’ Kim said. ‘If I lost this place, I know as a single woman in my 50s on one wage, I wouldn’t get another place.’

Kim visited the Logan Housing Service Centre and spoke to RentConnect officer Jade about her situation. Jade was able to connect Kim with a Rental Security Subsidy, which covered about 45% of her rent for 3 months while she looked for a housemate. A Tenancy Assist grant also helped to cover part of Kim’s bond and some other bills.

‘It was like winning lotto,” Kim said. “I’m so grateful, 100% they were brilliant.’

Our Rental Security Subsidies are targeted at people in the private rental market who face short-term financial barriers that negatively impact their ability to sustain a tenancy. Rent can be subsidised for a maximum of 2 years, depending on your total household income and individual circumstances.

‘I’ve always considered myself as the “helper”, not the one who needs help,’ Kim said.

‘Reaching out was very difficult for me. I felt like I’d failed. Jade was quick to put my mind at ease. She was caring, empathetic and actually listened without judgement. I felt so comfortable talking to her.’

Kim said that anyone who needs help with housing should contact their local Housing Service Centre.

‘Honestly, I really had no idea of the scope of help available.’

‘We’re all doing our best to survive in this crazy world,’ Kim said. ‘Don’t give up, there are people and resources to help. Be kind to yourself. Sometimes we all need a little leg up.’’

As part of our Homes for Queenslanders plan, we're delivering a $160 million Renters Relief Package to help tackle the cost of living. We're also doubling our team of RentConnect officers across the state and expanding eligibility for bond loans, rental grants and rental subsidies to help people like Kim access these services.

If you or someone you know needs housing help

Call 13 QGOV (13 74 68) or contact your local Housing Service Centre.

If you are experiencing or are at risk of homelessness, contact the Homeless Hotline for free on 1800 474 753 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).

Find out more about housing help and support.