The Gold Coast housing team was a godsend

Last updated: 

15 July 2024 11:33AM  

First published: 

27 August 2024 11:33AM

After multiple bouts of radiation and chemotherapy failed, Steve was about to start an innovative last-ditch treatment program for Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma.

When the medical bills arrived, the 55-year-old, who is a single dad of 2 and full-time carer for his autistic son, found his budget under strain and almost at breaking point.

'This treatment was an all-or-nothing scenario,' Steve says. 'The bills didn’t care how I was feeling and kept piling up. It was just an absolute nightmare.'

Steve got in touch with the Gold Coast Housing Service Centre, where RentConnect officers were able to help him access a Rental Security Subsidy to maintain his tenancy while receiving the life-saving cancer treatment.

'Certainly, that was the beginning of having some relief in my mind, and focusing more on coping … and not dying,' Steve says.

Rental Security Subsidy provided relief while recovering

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 keep their rental home when they’re experiencing short-term financial barriers.

'Having that money back in my budget every week is money that I could spend on my kids, on whatever was necessary, whether it be fuel, electricity, internet, groceries – all the usual single dad stuff,' Steve says.

Steve is now recovering from the treatment. He has been told he is in remission and can focus on his and his family’s future.

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 Steve 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.