Concern has been raised over what action is being taken by the Andrews Labor Government to address the growing need for increased social housing as the rising cost and availability of private rentals push many out of the market.
Speaking in Parliament, The Nationals Member for Gippsland South, Danny O’Brien called on the Minister for Housing to advise what action the government is taking to deliver additional social housing and also assist in improving the private rental market in Gippsland South.
“This week I was contacted by a constituent who had been told by a private real estate agent that two-bedroom rentals averaged $900 a fortnight in her town and her maximum disability support pension payment is only $1,026,” Mr O’Brien said.
“In the town of Leongatha there are currently only six rental properties available.
“I want to know what housing is being provided under the government’s Big Housing Build program in Gippsland South and indeed what action is being taken to ensure that there is more availability of private rental to reduce the dependency on social housing.”
Mr O’Brien said he was concerned that the Andrews Labor Government had chosen to place their focus on fairer rules for tenants while failing to ensure availability and affordability.
“So many landlords have told me of their frustration in dealing with new tenancy laws and how they’ve subsequently withdrawn their properties from the market.
“It’s all well and good to improve the conditions for tenants once they are in a home, but it’s putting the cart before the horse when the homes are simply not available or out of reach.
“We need real solutions to help people get a roof over their heads now.”