Anglicare’s annual Rental Affordability Snapshot reveals a devastating lack of rental affordability for low income families living in Bega, Bateman’s Bay and region. The report, now in its tenth year, shows a shocking long-term lack of affordable private rental properties in the Eurobodalla region.
No properties available for anyone in the Bega Valley relying on government support, with the exception of one group; couples with two children on a minimum wage receiving Family Tax Benefit A. The results were only slightly better for Bateman’s Bay with properties available for Couples with Two Children receiving Family Tax benefit A &B, and one property available for Couples with No Children receiving the Age Pension.
Anglicare Coordinator for Homelessness Services, Krystal Tritton, said the ongoing critical situation facing families in in the region is cause for concern.
“Our service sees an average of 30 people a month who are homeless or at risk of homelessness,” said Ms Tritton. “While we are seeing a greater number of older people, the range of those affected is diverse from single parents, to people with disabilities, and families experiencing mortgage strain because of a change in life circumstances.” "Over 40 percent of Australians worry they could become homeless if their circumstances change" Anglicare’s annual Rental Affordability Snapshot
Ms Tritton insists that more supports are needed to assist the growing number of struggling families including greater government financial help for families and improved protections for renters.
The snapshot surveyed 22 properties advertised for rent in the Bega Valley region and 44 properties in Bateman’s Bay on Saturday 23 March in terms of affordability and appropriateness to accommodate the required number of people.
