Western Australians struggling to pay rent will get more help, as the State Government is extending its relief program until the end of the year.
The WA Rent Relief Program, run by Anglicare WA and Vinnies WA, offers up to $5,000 in support for tenants who have fallen behind on rent and are facing financial stress. Since it began in November 2023, it has delivered over $11.6 million to 2,712 households across the state.
To qualify, tenants must be behind on rent, have less than $3,000 in savings, and be struggling to cover basic living costs.
Commerce Minister Tony Buti said the program had already prevented many evictions and would now support even more families.
“This program has helped more than 2,700 households stay in their homes,” he said. “It shows what’s possible when government and community organisations work together.”
Most of the support has gone to tenants in Perth, but a quarter of recipients were based in regional WA. Women made up 65 percent of those helped, with many being single parents. Among male recipients, one in five were also single parents.
In total, more than 1,000 children have remained housed thanks to the program.
An independent review found 85 percent of people who received assistance remained in their homes six months later. Those who moved were supported into more affordable options.
Housing and Works Minister John Carey said the support was part of a larger housing effort.
“We’re doing everything we can to make sure Western Australians have access to safe, affordable housing,” he said. “This is part of our $5.1 billion commitment to housing and homelessness since 2021.”
