‘The general housing waiting times for Wyndham are indefinite…it’s not uncommon for someone to be waiting for many years.’ – Suzanna Lopez
DESPITE a drop in the number of people waiting for public housing across the western suburbs, some Wyndham residents are still being forced to go without – some having waited for up to 10 years.
Statistics from the Department of Human Services reveal 3688 people were waiting for public housing through the department’s Sunshine office in June, a fall of 178 from March.
A further 720 people were waiting to be transferred from their current public housing – down from 743 in March.
But Uniting Care Werribee Support and Housing said the figures didn’t reflect reality.
Social worker and private rent program co-ordinator Suzanna Lopez estimated 250 people were waiting for early housing in Wyndham, while a further 716 were on the department’s general public housing waiting list.
“The general housing waiting times for Wyndham are indefinite … it’s not uncommon for someone to be waiting for many years,” she said.
“The public housing waiting list across all of the bedroom sizes is becoming increasingly lengthier. In time, public housing will no longer be a viable option.”
In an attempt to address the shortage, Werribee Support and Housing has started a private rental access program.
The program helps clients who are ready to rent a private house find properties through real estate agents.
Ms Lopez said it could also help people find a room to rent. “People accessing the program usually will need the financial means to rent, have no debts, have not been blacklisted – they’re just finding it hard to secure a rental property,” she said. “We envisage the private rental access program will create alternative accommodation options and move away from a heavy reliance on public housing.”
Housing Minister Wendy Lovell said the government was working to reduce public housing waiting lists, but she acknowledged there was still work to be done.
She said the government had reviewed vacancy rates, turnover procedures and times and was working harder with applicants who had been waiting the longest for accommodation.
For details on Werribee Support and Housing’s rental program or to advertise a room or house for rent, call 9742 6452.
