Real estate industry demands more government support for renters, landlords amid coronavirus crisis

PHOTO: Tenants and landlords are vulnerable in the economic upheaval wrought by coronavirus, experts say. Photo: Stephen McKenzie

Renters will need much more support through the coronavirus pandemic, real estate industry experts have warned, foreshadowing that many may not be able to afford keep a roof over their head.

Many want much more offered in the rental assistance package due to be handed down on Tuesday night when the national cabinet meets.

“If they decide not to fund rental assistance and leave it up to the landlord and renter to sort out, it will cause anarchy,” said Real Estate Institute of Australia president Adrian Kelly.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison recently announced the JobSeeker allowance would double, offering relief to vulnerable renters.

“[However] incomes must be below $1075 a fortnight to be eligible for the [extra] $550 a fortnight supplement and therefore, only those with incomes of less than $42,450 a year would be eligible,” Real Estate Institute of Western Australia’s president Damian Collins said.