Minimum Housing Standards

In late November, Make Renting Fair WA launched the Out With The Mould: Setting The Standards For WA Rental Homes report highlighting the urgent need for minimum standards for WA rental properties.

Not only have Western Australian renters been hit with nation leading rent increases, for many the homes they are renting are unsafe, unhealthy, and inadequate. Worse still, renters are putting up with poor living conditions out of fear that reporting these will lead to eviction or further rent increases.

Based on data collected from 380 renters between July 2022 and June 2024, the report highlights the following findings:

• Two in five renters live in a home infested with pests
• Nearly six in 10 have experienced leaks, dampness or mould in their current rental
• More than half have difficulty keeping their home cool or warm
• Two in three are worried that requesting repairs will lead to their lease not being renewed, while more than half are completing repairs themselves

Anglicare WA acknowledges the progress made by the WA government in the first tranche of tenancy reforms, however, minimum standards must be included in the next round of reforms, in line with our proposed housing policies.

The state election is fast approaching, and Western Australians will closely watch the rental and housing policies proposed by candidates as they prepare to cast their votes. Candidates need to demonstrate boldness and a strong commitment to addressing the housing crisis. Minimum standards must be included as an election commitment as a step towards achieving accessible, safe and secure housing in WA.

If you would like to learn more about Make Renting Fair WA or support the campaign, please click here.