Vinnies WA welcomes much needed cost of living relief for WA renters
Vinnies WA welcomes the State Government's announcement that it will extend the vital WA Rent Relief Program for a further year.
Today, WA Premier Roger Cook, Minister for Commerce and Attorney-General Dr Tony Buti MLA and Minister for Housing John Carey MLA converged at Vinnies WA's headquarters in Canning Vale for a pre-budget announcement regarding the WA Rent Relief program.
Since its inception in late 2023, Rent Relief has offered a lifeline to thousands of West Australians, and can often be what saves them from the next worst thing – living in their car or on the streets.
With the program funding set to end on June 30, just days out from the State Budget the Premier revealed that Rent Relief will be extended for another year, until June 30, 2027.
"As a partner in delivering this vital program alongside Anglicare WA, Vinnies WA welcomes this funding announcement and commends the State Government for providing continued cost-of-living relief for WA households experiencing rental stress," Vinnies WA CEO Ann Curran said.
"In our Emergency Relief call centre, our team are hearing more cries for help from vulnerable West Australians who simply can’t afford to pay their rent, put food on the table and cover basic living expenses.
"The one-year extension is no doubt welcome news to many West Australians who are struggling to make ends meet during these challenging times."
Also announced today was a key reform in the rental space that will see the removal of no-grounds evictions, which offers more assurance and a sense of security for WA renters.
This rental reform is a huge win, with Shelter WA among the key organisations leading the way to advocate for this major change.
To read more about the State Government's announcement, click here.