Action needed on tenants, housing

Tasmanian Labor
  • Private rental protections set to be lifted in December
  • Change will leave many tenants vulnerable
  • Housing, short stay accommodation reports must be released
  • The State Government needs to act to protect vulnerable Tasmanians who will be affected by the lifting of private rental protections next month.

    Shadow Minister for Housing Alison Standen said the housing crisis will only worsen without targeted action.

    “The ban on evictions and residential rent increases has helped many Tasmanians through COVID-19,” Ms Standen said.

    “But the loss of those protections on 1 December is set to create a wave of rental increases and evictions, exacerbating a housing crisis that pre-dates the pandemic and is far from over.

    “With many Tasmanians continuing to struggle to find jobs and facing ongoing financial uncertainty, there is a real risk of homelessness, particularly for those who are ineligible for private rental financial support programs.

    “The government needs to outline a plan to support tenants through this change and ensure vulnerable Tasmanians are protected.

    “The Minister must not sit on the September quarterly housing report, which is due for release – we need details on housing outcomes that provide support for those who need it most.

    “The government must also release the third quarterly Short Stay Accommodation report, which is two months overdue.

    “We have an opportunity to act immediately to regulate the short stay market to pause new permits on entire dwellings in tight housing markets, improving private rental availability and affordability.

    “With our borders open again and visitors starting to return, this would also support existing licensed operators experiencing low visitation.

    “We cannot return to the conditions that brought about the housing crisis. We need to prioritise housing security and look after all Tasmanians.”

    Alison Standen MP

    Shadow Minister for Housing

    /Public Release. View in full here.