ACT government to give $1000 to tenants still struggling from COVID-19

ACT Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury said renters who had been financially hit by the COVID-19 lockdown and had experienced severe rental stress would be able to access a one-off grant of up to $1000 from the government.

To be eligible, tenants must pay more than 30 per cent of their income in rent and have savings of less than $5000, or if they pay less than 30 per cent of income in rent and have less than $3000 of savings. They must also meet income limits.

The fund comes after an eviction moratorium for affected tenants came to an end on Thursday. The protection from eviction will continue for those until February who fell behind on rent during the moratorium provided they pay rent as it is due.

"This has been a challenging year for Canberra renters, some of whom are struggling to make ends meet," Mr Rattenbury said.

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"The $133,000 ACT government rent relief fund will provide one-off grants of up to $1000 to eligible tenants and occupants which will be paid directly to their landlord or grantor on their behalf. This will help tenants and occupants maintain safe, secure and stable accommodation.

"Despite lockdown ending and our graduated return to normal life in the ACT, many renters still face pressures, including financial pressures that built up during the lockdown period."

The funds will be distributed through Care Financial Counselling Service.

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