Public housing tenants in Victoria who moved into their homes after living in caravans and tents fear steep rent rises could force them back into unsuitable situations.
Homes Victoria says the rent increases have been calculated based on market values, but tenants won't pay more than 25 per cent of their household income in rent.Affected tenants say they will have to cut back significantly on basic expenses to cope, with one 75-year-old considering moving back into a caravan.
"This process ... provides tenants an opportunity to update their declared income with Homes Victoria to ensure they only pay what they can afford," the spokesperson said.However, tenants and advocates say the rising cost of living makes some of the rents untenable.Neighbour Geoffrey Stopps, 75, is facing a similar rent increase.
"It's $10 to get in the gate but I can't afford $10 to watch my grandson play under 14s football," he said.Sharon Morgan used to live in a tent before moving into a public housing unit in Donald to be close to her son, who lives in Swan Hill.She said she was already struggling to pay her bills and the rent rise was another blow.Sharon Morgan is worried she will no longer be able to afford fuel to drive to Swan Hill to see her son.
Public Housing Cost Of Living Social Housing Retirement Rent Increase Expenses Real Estate Shortage Crisis
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