Canberrans experiencing financial stress or hardship in paying their rent can now apply for financial assistance through the ACT’s ‘Rent Relief Fund’.
Announcing the re-establishment of the Fund, Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury said Care, a community organisation that assists people on low to moderate incomes or who are experiencing financial difficulty, would administer the Rent Relief Fund.
“The Fund will provide targeted, short-term support for people experiencing financial stress or hardship in the ACT’s private rental sector,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“The Fund is one way we are supporting vulnerable Canberrans and easing the stress for households worrying where next week’s rent will come from,” he said.
“If a grant is approved by Care, the applicant can receive a one-off grant for up to four weeks rent capped at $2,500.”
Mr Rattenbury said the grant would be paid directly to the landlord or to the grantor in the case of occupants.
Minister for Housing and Suburban Development, Yvette Berry said the re-establishment of the Rent Relief Fund was an important part of the Territory’s plan to support Canberrans with the rising cost of living.
“A secure home is a foundation for people’s wellbeing,” Ms Berry said.
“We know that the cost of housing can be a significant pressure for some households, and this additional support will go to those who need it most,” she said.
“Alongside the rent relief fund, the ACT Government is releasing more land, growing and renewing public housing, and reforming the Territory Plan to ensure more housing options for future Canberrans.”
Further information on the Rent Relief Fund can be accessed at this PS News link.
