Right Facing Red For Rent Real Estate Sign in Front of Beautiful House.
UPDATE: New figures reveal that renters in Western Australia are facing an alarming surge in costs, with the state’s median rent skyrocketing over 50% since 2021. Families are now paying an extra $377 per week, translating to nearly $20,000 annually, as advocates urgently call for government intervention in the rental market.
The WA Make Renting Fair Alliance reports that the median weekly rent has surged from $339 in 2021 to a staggering $716 today. This crisis is pushing many families to the brink, as previously affordable suburbs have essentially vanished from the market.
Officials report that the extreme increase follows years of significant rental shortages. Earlier reports indicated that Perth’s vacancy rate plunged to an unprecedented 0.4% in 2022, creating a highly competitive environment where desperate tenants were offering up to 20% above the asking price just to secure a home. While the vacancy rate has slightly improved to around 2-2.5%, it remains well below balanced levels, leaving many suburbs still experiencing rates near 1% or less.
The repercussions are being felt throughout the metropolitan area. High-demand suburbs like Cottesloe, Carine, Nedlands, and Churchlands have recorded some of the largest rent increases. Alice Pennycott, spokesperson for Make Renting Fair WA, stated, “Suburbs that were previously considered affordable have basically disappeared. Low- and medium-income renters aren’t just priced out of certain neighborhoods anymore — they’re being priced out of the entire state.”
As rising rents continue to drive families into housing stress, homelessness, and poverty, Shelter WA chief executive Kath Snell emphasized the dire situation, noting that many families are sacrificing essential needs just to keep a roof over their heads. “Some people are going without medications or basic food,” she warned.
Advocates are urging immediate actions, including the introduction of rent caps, longer notice periods for rent increases, and an end to “no grounds” evictions. Mark Glasson, chief executive of Anglicare WA, highlighted the plight of essential workers, stating that teachers and nurses can no longer afford to live in the communities they serve.
The Western Australian Council of Social Service chief executive, Louise Giolitto, pointed to the government’s previous willingness to implement temporary measures during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Now’s the time to try rent stabilization measures to ensure housing remains affordable amid rising living costs,” she said, advocating for the extension of the WA Rent Relief Program to help families stay in their homes.
Without immediate intervention, advocates warn that Western Australia’s housing crisis will worsen, leaving more families vulnerable to losing their homes. The urgent call for action is clear: WA must act now to protect its renters and restore stability to the housing market.
As developments unfold, stakeholders urge the government to prioritize these issues and implement effective solutions for the growing housing crisis.
