A Werribee mother is disappointed the state government is again trying to raise rents for people with disabilities living in supported accommodation.
Earlier this year, the government backed down on a plan to increase residential fees from half of the disability support pension to 75 per cent after a legal challenge by families.
It has since introduced legislation that will allow ‘‘cost-of-living’’ increases.
Families will be able to challenge higher rents at the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) only if they are higher than increases to the consumer price index. The changes will affect 2100 Victorians living in government-run supported accommodation.
Roslyn Fitton, who has a son living in supported accommodation at Deer Park, said even a slight increase to her son’s rent would leave him unable to take part in many of the activities he enjoys, including horse riding.
“I’m bitterly disappointed. It’s disheartening to see the government doing this,” she said.
Tarneit Labor MP Tim Pallas accused the government of introducing legislation that would hurt vulnerable Victorians.
“It’s shocking the Coalition not only wants to squeeze money out of these residents but to silence them at VCAT as well,” he said.
Disability Services Minister Mary Wooldridge said the changes would provide residents with a single, transparent fee.
“This fee will incorporate expenses that can vary significantly, such as electricity and other utility bills, giving residents greater certainty over disposable incomes,” she said.
“The changes also enable people living in government-managed disability residential services to access and contribute Commonwealth rent assistance towards the cost of their residential charge.”
