Western Australia Housing Strategy Tenant Forums
Forums have been held with tenants to ensure the next Western Australian Housing Strategy reflects the voices and concerns of the current housing system and its impact on WA tenants.
More importantly, these forums were held to design the new strategy with tenants up front and centre. Renting is becoming the norm now
Renting as a boarder or lodger either in public and community housing, or in the private rental market is growing. Renting is becoming the norm in Australia for many people and households and will continue to do so in the future.
The tenant forums were held in three locations, Perth Metro, Mirrabooka and Cannington. With a diverse group of renters in the room, it meant that feedback into the Western Australian Housing Strategy has been fulsome.
Issues Raised
Participants raised a number of issues covering:
- Re-balancing renter and landlord rights.
- Prompt repair of maintenance in properties.
- Enforce minimum standards.
- Independent tribunal for resolving tenancy matters.
- More diverse housing options that meet the needs of West Australians.
- Sustainability, climate response and healthy housing.
- Increased role of local government in housing supply.
- Syndicated ownership of housing to promote broader community benefits.
The forums were co-facilitated by Shelter WA’s Lisa Kazalac and TAGWA members, Trish Owen, Wendy Morris and Megan Neal. This ensured that the forums were designed and co-facilitated by tenants, creating an open and safe space for sharing tenant stories.
A report is under development and will be presented to the Department of Communities in November 2019.
