Private rental
Housing Support in the City of Port Phillip
There is a housing crisis across Australia, and it’s affecting many people—especially those trying to rent privately. In the City of Port Phillip, about 44% of people rent their homes. This page explains how the Council is supporting and what support is available for local residents.
What is Council doing?
Speaking up (Advocacy)
Council is asking the State and Federal Governments to take stronger action to fix the housing crisis. You can read our latest ideas and suggestions in our submission to the Federal Government below.
Council is also advocating for increased and diversified housing options to reduce homelessness and improve social cohesion.
Housing and Homelessness Support
Council has a Housing and Homelessness team who can:
Support older persons accessing public housing via the sponsorship waitlist
Answer general questions about housing and where to get help.
Other places that can support
Financial & Crisis Help
Centrelink provides Crisis Payments and the Centrepay service for direct bill deductions.
Unison Housing and Launch Housing run the Private Rental Assistance Program (PRAP) which might support you with money or other support. PRAP offers financial help (rent arrears, bond, rent in advance) and support to sustain private tenancies, especially for those at risk of homelessness.
Anglicare Victoria runs programs like the Rental Stress Program for urgent help (1800 809 722).
Housing Vic provides links to financial help and government support for renters.
Legal Advice
If you’re having rental problems, Southside Justice may offer free legal advice.
Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria provides free mediation and advice for various disputes, including landlord/tenant issues.
Rental Rights Advice
Consumer Affairs Victoria and Tenants Victoria can give you information about your renting rights and responsibilities.
Tenants Victoria offers free information, advice, and referrals via website (below) and helpline (03 9416 2577) for all Victorian renters.
Consumer Affairs Victoria runs the Tenancy Assistance and Advocacy Program (TAAP) where community agencies provide help for financially disadvantaged renters with disputes, negotiation, and VCAT preparation.
Social Housing
You might qualify for social (affordable) housing. Learn more at Victorian Housing Register | Housing.vic.gov.au
If you need crisis housing (emergency help), contact: