Submissions will close soon for a major inquiry into the rental and housing crisis in Victoria, Nationals
MP Gaelle Broad said today.
Ms Broad said rental and housing affordability is an issue across Northern Victoria.
“I have spoken with individuals, relief agencies, local councils and real estate agents, and the
overwhelming response is that it’s a really tough market for people looking for somewhere to live,”
Ms Broad said.
“Property prices have risen, and rising interest rates are also adding to the pressure and making it
even harder for people to find a place to live.”
“I am concerned that Victoria’s public housing wait list is at record levels, and those in urgent need
of assistance are waiting for up to two years.”
Recent analysis by the Council to Homeless Persons showed the number of homeless people is
growing in regional areas, including Bendigo East which has grown by 107% and Mildura 96%.
The inquiry will be run by the Parliament’s Upper House Legal and Social Issues Committee.
“The inquiry will examine the many challenges renters face, and the factors contributing to the
current rental and housing affordability crisis in Victoria,” Ms Broad said.
“It aims to identify the factors that contribute to the low availability and high costs of rental
properties.
“The barriers to first home ownership and the impact that this has on rental stock will also be
explored.
“In addition, it will look at the regulations that cover the standards and conditions of rental housing,
and the impact of short-stay accommodation on the housing market.
“The committee wants to hear from everyday renters, property owners, industry experts and
community organisations.
“I encourage all those who are interested to make a contribution to this inquiry,” Ms Broad said.
Submissions close on July 7 and the committee plans to report back to Parliament by November 17
2023.
Details on the inquiry and how to make a submission can be found on the committee’s website.
Inquiry into the rental and housing affordability crisis in Victoria (parliament.vic.gov.au)
Media Contact: Linda Barrow 0484 303 764 linda.barrow@parliament.vic.gov.a
