Rental Security Subsidy provides breathing space

Last updated: 

2 July 2024 4:21PM  

First published: 

27 August 2024 4:21PM

Sharon has been renting a 2-bedroom unit in Bundaberg since moving from New South Wales after the death of her husband, Henry. But 2 rent increases in under 2 years stretched her budget to breaking point.

The 74-year-old spoke to RentConnect officers Jo and Lindsay at the Bundaberg Housing Service Centre, who helped Sharon access a Rental Security Subsidy to keep her rental home while she looks for a more affordable option.

Under a Rental Security Subsidy, the Queensland Government pays a portion of rent to a landlord for a maximum of 2 years, which helps people sustain a tenancy when they’re experiencing short-term financial barriers.

'I can go shopping now – I couldn’t do that before. I was going to the church to get milk, bread, noodles and things like that, and to eat meals,' Sharon says.

'I can breathe a little easier,' said Sharon.

'By the time the rent was paid, the electricity, my car rego, my car insurance, my phone, there was not much left. I do everything on the cheap as much I can, but it’s very, very hard to find any cheaper accommodation.’'

Sharon says that it was difficult to reach out for help at first.

'I’m a very independent person. I’ve always looked after myself, I’ve always paid rent, I’ve always worked, and to have to ask these people for help has been hard,' Sharon says.

'I can’t speak highly enough of the help that I’ve been getting. It’s been a godsend. Jo and Lindsay have been unbelievable, so caring and very, very calm.'

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 to help people like Sharon 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.