Consumer Protection is encouraging Perth landlords to attend a Shelter WA Homelessness Week Event, to learn about ways to help tenants experiencing family violence and other serious problems.

Commissioner for Consumer Protection David Hillyard said the ‘Landlords Making A Difference’ session on 9 August in Maylands is a great opportunity for owners of rental homes to hear from government, industry and the not-for-profit sector.

“Event speakers will outline actions, large and small, that can prevent homelessness in WA; about 40 per cent of which is caused by family and domestic violence (FDV),” Mr Hillyard said.

“A Senior Policy Officer from Consumer Protection will be talking about really important proposed changes to WA tenancy laws to help tenants affected by FDV. The Residential Tenancies Legislation Amendment (Family Violence) Bill 2018 gives tenants who are living in fear options to stay or go; either by applying to the courts to have a violent family member removed from the tenancy agreement or by providing evidence of FDV to their landlord so they can leave safely.

“While the legislation is victim-focussed, we believe there will be clear benefits for landlords, including less abandonment of premises, which can leave the landlord having to deal with the hassle of abandoned goods and taking former tenants to court.”

Michelle Mackenzie, CEO of Shelter WA is looking forward to a positive networking experience for landlords, with the potential to create valuable change in our community.

“The theme for Homelessness Week 2018, which runs from 6 to 12 August, is ‘There’s always something you can do’ and we know landlords can certainly help end homelessness and indeed many already do a lot to provide safe, affordable housing. 

“We’ll be collecting stories about ethical things landlords have done to help WA tenants. It’s a great opportunity to showcase the positive actions of investment property owners who are in a position to make a big difference to tenants’ lives.

“Anyone who is a landlord is invited to come and be part of the journey to a housing system that works for all of us.” 

The Landlords Making A Difference - Homelessness Week Event is supported by Lotterywest and the Department of Communities. It will be held on Thursday 9 August at 4pm at The Rise in Maylands. Further details are available on the Shelter WA website www.shelterwa.org.au/homelessness_week where landlords can RSVP electronically.

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Media Contact: Alan Hynd, (08) 6552 9248 / 0429 078 791 / alan.hynd@dmirs.wa.gov.au