News

Support for renters

By Jay Bryce

May 15, 2024

A helping hand: Government funding will allow renters to receive more support.

Victorian Government funding will allow a renters’ rights and housing justice organisation to expand amid the cost-of-living and housing crisis.

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ARC Justice’s dedicated tenancy rights and advocacy service, Housing Justice, will expand after being selected as one of 12 organisations to receive funding through the government’s Rental Stress Support Package.

Housing Justice will be able to help more families and individuals across central and northern Victoria stay in their homes thanks to a boost to Tenants Victoria’s Renter Stress Hub program, of which ARC Justice is part.

ARC Justice is a rights-based, for-purpose organisation incorporating the Loddon Campaspe Community Legal Centre and Housing Justice based in Bendigo and the Goulburn Valley Community Legal Centre based in Shepparton.

ARC Justice chief executive Damian Stock said the funding would help the organisation meet the increased demand for housing services and provide communities with assistance in navigating the complexities of the rental market.

He said three key factors were driving demand.

“Historically low vacancy rates have made it difficult for renters to find alternative accommodation, increasing the need for support when facing disputes with landlords,” Mr Stock said.

“Secondly, recent changes to Victorian tenancy laws have empowered renters with new legal rights, driving up demand for guidance and advocacy.

“And lastly, floods in our region in 2022 and subsequent inundations this year have exacerbated housing strain, heightening the urgency for programs to help renters in securing stable housing.

“Co-ordinating with Tenants Victoria will maximise digital tools and remote assistance for information and advice when appropriate, allowing us to focus front-line support for those in greatest need.”