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Contact: Ms Penny Carr TU Coordinator
Ph: 07-3257 1411 (w) 0418 747 921(m)
Dr Tim Seelig Project Consultant
Ph: 0409 474003

RENTER VULNERABILITY, LACK OF RIGHTS
HIGHLIGHTED IN NEW STUDY

Embargoed for release: 6am November 8, 2007

The vulnerability of private renters in Queensland, and the need for greater legal protection, has been highlighted in a new report released today.

In a study conducted by the Tenants' Union of Queensland (TUQ), the experiences and views of private renters from across the state have been captured through a series of focus group discussions. These have identified the difficulties tenants face in accessing and retaining quality, affordable and secure rental housing. Renters from a mix of income groups and locations have also spoken of the many difficulties in getting repairs done during their tenancies, and of their concerns about trying to enforce their rights.

The report, prepared by rental housing specialist Dr Tim Seelig for the TUQ, has also shown how current tenancy law protection is inadequate in several areas, particularly in terms of notice periods for ending a tenancy, eviction without reasons, and limitations on rent increases.

"A system where tenants are unable to pursue their basic rights for fear of rent increase and/or eviction is a system which needs fixing", stated TUQ Coordinator, Penny Carr.

"Tenants own views concur with our own - that reasons for evictions must be required, rent increases should be limited to one per year, and significant increases in termination time periods are required".

Tenancy laws are currently under review by the Queensland Government.

The report will be officially launched at the TUQ's Brisbane office at 11.30am Thursday 8 November. Dr Tim Seelig and Ms Penny Carr available on site for comment at that time, or by other arrangement.
The full report (PDF) is available at this link:
Focus Group Report