Needs-based housing funding crucial for struggling Territorians

Anglicare NT, together with Anglicare Australia, today release the 2024 Rental Affordability Snapshot, which shows Territorians on low incomes struggle to find an affordable place to live.

On the Snapshot weekend of 16 March 2024, 577 private rentals were advertised for rent in the Northern Territory. Of these properties:

• No properties were affordable for singles, single parents or couples with children living on the JobSeeker payment.
• No properties were affordable for singles aged over 18 on Youth Allowance in the NT.
• Only 5 properties were affordable for couples on the Age Pension, with no properties affordable for singles on the Age Pension or Disability Support Pension.

“Due to a lack of affordable accommodation in the NT, many individuals and families find themselves living in overcrowded or dangerous conditions. The scarcity of suitable housing perpetuates a cycle of disadvantage, making it difficult for people to maintain employment, live with dignity and actively participate in their community,” said Anglicare NT CEO Craig Kelly.

“While we are encouraged by recent substantial funding announcements by Government to improve housing in remote communities and homelands, the Snapshot results demonstrate the importance of needs-based funding. The Northern Territory has the highest rates of homelessness in Australia and funding must meet needs.”

“With the private rental market failing people on low incomes, we join Anglicare Australia in calling on the Government to return to building and supplying housing itself.”

“We are also calling for an increase to the rate of JobSeeker and other payments to help people on the lowest incomes secure a home. People need a decent income, more housing options, flexible responses and appropriate supports to live safely and with dignity.”

To assist people experiencing homelessness and those at risk of homelessness, Anglicare NT offers transitional accommodation, tenancy sustainability, homelessness support and early intervention services. Tailored information, outreach support, case management, skills training, supported referrals and advocacy help people address immediate needs, access specialist services, develop plans and explore available housing options.

Read the full NT Rental Affordability Snapshot 2024