5 July 2021

The WA Government has extended the Residential Rent Relief Grant Scheme for a further six months to help renters who are finding it difficult to meet their rent payments as a result of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. 

Since the scheme began in 2020, it has been expanded a number of times and in total more than $11.7 million has been granted to applicants. To provide further relief, the scheme has been extended beyond its scheduled finish date of 28 June 2021 through to 31 December 2021. 

The grants will provide much needed assistance to renters who are struggling to meet their rental payments, and who had a residential tenancy agreement in place as of 28 June 2021. This will also provide a great incentive to landlords to maintain existing tenancies.

How much can be granted?

• Rent support grants of up to $2,000 per tenancy can be accessed by tenants who are facing significant rent increases and need help to meet these payments. Landlords must agree to a lease of at least six months.
• Rent arrears assistance grants are available to help tenants pay a current outstanding rent debt incurred before 1 December 2020. Grants for 75 per cent of the rent arrears, up to a maximum of $4,000 will be paid directly to eligible landlords. In return, the landlord and tenant must enter into a further minimum six month lease agreement. 

While you may be eligible for both rent arrears assistance and rent support, it is not possible to receive both grants. If this is the case, the processing officer will calculate which grant is of the greatest benefit to you, and this will be paid to your landlord on your behalf. Previous applicants can also apply again, subject to eligibility.

Who can apply?

To check if you are eligible to apply, try the quick two-minute Residential Rent Relief Grant Scheme eligibility tool.

How do I apply?

Full eligibility criteria and application information is available on our Residential Rent Relief Grant Scheme page, contact us by calling 1300 304 054 or email tenancyhelp@demirs.wa.gov.au

Mandatory Conciliation Service for tenants and landlords ends

Consumer Protection’s Mandatory Conciliation Service for tenants and landlords was introduced by the WA Government to help landlords and tenants with rental disputes arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic. The service ceased accepting applications on 29 June 2021. Applications received prior to 29 June 2021 will be processed.

The extended COVID-19 emergency period has ended, which means the ordinary tenancy laws under the Residential Tenancies Act 1987 (WA) apply again. 

Landlords and tenants are encouraged to act and negotiate in good faith to agree on reasonable and workable tenancy arrangements, helping to create a safe and secure renting future for everyone. 

More information can be found on our website to help with resolving rental property issues. Contact us if you are having difficulty reaching agreement or require assistance with a rental issue by phoning our Contact Centre on 1300 304 054.