Private rental trends and homelessness

The relationship between the private rental sector and homelessness is immediate and complex. Among those seeking SAAP support the private rental sector among mainstream housing tenures (ownership, purchasing and public rental) accounted for the largest proportion of the homeless presenting for support and it is also the most common exit point for people leaving SAAP services. (AIHW 1997). Thus what happens in the private rental sector is fundamental to the future form and degree of homelessness. If the rental sector becomes increasingly difficult for low income households, in terms of access and affordability, then it is potentially a context for greater homelessness. Conversely if access and affordability improve some of the pressures on homelessness will be removed.