Finding safe and affordable housing is a major challenge for many Australians. Whether you’re a single parent, a young adult starting out, or someone facing financial hardship, the rising cost of rent and living can make stability feel out of reach.
But there’s good news: the Australian government offers several forms of housing assistance to help you keep a roof over your head.
Housing support in Australia isn’t just for people experiencing homelessness. It’s available to anyone who needs help with rent, is at risk of eviction, or is struggling to find secure accommodation.
What Is Housing Assistance?
Housing assistance includes a range of government programs and payments that help people afford accommodation. The most common types include:
- Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA)
- Public and Community Housing
- State-based Rental Assistance Programs
- Crisis and Emergency Accommodation
- Bond Loans and Rent in Advance schemes
Each type serves different needs—from short-term emergency help to long-term public housing solutions.
Who Can Get Housing Help?
You may be eligible for housing assistance in Australia if:
- You receive a Centrelink payment (e.g. JobSeeker, Age Pension, Parenting Payment)
- You rent in the private market and pay a minimum amount of rent
- You are homeless or at risk of homelessness
- You live in shared accommodation or community housing
- You are a low-income earner with limited assets
Even if you don’t meet all the requirements, many services can guide you to alternative options.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Housing Assistance
Step 1: Set Up Your myGov and Centrelink Accounts
Start by creating a myGov account and linking it to Centrelink, if you haven’t already.
To get started:
- Go to my.gov.au
- Link your Centrelink account using your Customer Reference Number (CRN)
- Complete identity verification
Once linked, you can view and apply for housing-related payments directly through your account.
Step 2: Check Your Eligibility for Rent Assistance
Commonwealth Rent Assistance (CRA) is a fortnightly payment for people who already receive a Centrelink benefit and pay rent.
You may be eligible if:
- You rent privately, live in a retirement village, or in community housing
- You receive a qualifying payment like Age Pension, JobSeeker, or Parenting Payment
- You pay over a certain threshold in rent each fortnight
How much can you get?
- The amount depends on how much rent you pay and your household situation
- Payments range from $100 to over $200 per fortnight
How to apply:
- CRA is automatically assessed when you claim another Centrelink payment
- You’ll need to provide a rent certificate or lease agreement
Step 3: Apply for Public or Community Housing
If you need long-term, affordable housing and your income is low, you can apply for public or community housing through your state or territory housing authority.
Here’s how it works:
For NSW:
Visit facs.nsw.gov.au and apply for Housing Pathways
For Victoria:
Visit housing.vic.gov.au to apply for Public Housing and the Victorian Housing Register
For Queensland:
Visit qld.gov.au
Each state has slightly different processes, but common requirements include:
- Low income and asset limits
- Proof of Australian residency
- Priority needs (e.g. health issues, domestic violence, homelessness)
Step 4: Use State Rental Assistance Programs
Each state also offers additional help with rental costs. These may include:
- Bond Loans: Interest-free loans to help cover the rental bond
- Rent in Advance: A one-time payment to cover initial rent
- Rent Assistance Grants: Temporary help if you’re behind on rent
To apply, contact your local housing department or community services office. These programs often work in conjunction with Centrelink.
Step 5: Seek Emergency Housing or Crisis Help
If you are homeless or at risk of homelessness, you can access immediate help through:
- Homelessness Services
- Crisis Accommodation
- Transitional Housing
Call 1800 152 152 or visit your state’s housing crisis service. No appointment or documentation is needed to get initial help.
In Victoria: Call 1800 825 955 (24/7 crisis support)
In NSW: Contact Link2Home on 1800 152 152
In Queensland: Call Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753
You’ll be referred to local shelters, temporary housing, or case workers who can help you find longer-term solutions.
Key Housing Services by State
New South Wales (NSW)
- Main Site: facs.nsw.gov.au
- Apply for public housing, temporary accommodation, and bond loans
- Access private rental subsidy programs
Victoria
- Main Site: housing.vic.gov.au
- Apply for social housing and rent assistance grants
- Emergency help available through community agencies
Queensland
- Main Site: qld.gov.au
- Offers RentConnect for finding private rentals
- Bond Loan Plus for up to 4 weeks’ rent
South Australia
- Main Site: sa.gov.au
- Apply for Housing SA properties
- Rent Relief and Emergency Accommodation support
Western Australia
- Main Site: housing.wa.gov.au
- Bond Assistance Loans and Priority Waitlists
- Tenancy support for at-risk individuals
Helpful Apps and Tools
Express Plus Centrelink App
Pros:
- Easy access to payment details
- Upload documents instantly
- View CRA status and rent certificates
Cons:
- Requires prior Centrelink account setup
myGov Website
Pros:
- Main portal for all federal payments
- Secure and streamlined
Cons:
- Can be overwhelming for first-time users
Ask Izzy
A free website connecting people with housing, food, and financial help.
Pros:
- Mobile-friendly
- Works anonymously
- Covers all of Australia
Cons:
- Listings may not always be updated in real-time
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I get Rent Assistance if I live with my parents?
Generally, no. You must be paying rent in a private or shared rental to qualify.
Do I need to be unemployed to get help?
Not necessarily. Low-income earners and part-time workers may still qualify.
Is housing assistance permanent?
Some payments are temporary. Public housing may offer long-term stability, but you need to update your circumstances regularly.
What if my income changes?
Always report income changes to Centrelink. It can affect how much assistance you receive.
Can international students or visa holders apply?
Most housing payments are for Australian citizens or permanent residents. Temporary visa holders should seek advice from housing services.
Tips to Make the Most of Housing Assistance
- Apply Early: Public housing waitlists can be long—apply even if your situation is stable now.
- Keep Paperwork Handy: Have your lease, ID, income reports, and rental receipts ready.
- Ask About Local Charities: Churches and nonprofits often offer rental support.
- Use Online Tools: Use estimators to see how much you might receive.
- Follow Up: Stay in touch with housing offices or case workers.
Housing is a basic right, not a luxury. If you’re struggling, there is no shame in seeking help. These programs exist to support Australians and ensure that everyone, regardless of their income or circumstances, has a safe place to live.
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