June 2008

Rockhampton housing providers, joined by some from as far away as Redland Bay, and Qld Shelter delegate Sophie Paterson met with the Rockhampton Area Office Manager and staff of the CQ area offices and Brisbane Community Housing Policy staff as part of the Transitional Housing Realignment review. The forum  afforded an opportunity for  networking amongst providers and the Department’s staff expressed a willingness to listen to the attendees’ views, particularly those regarding individual tenancy plans and the needs of an increasing number of high needs client referrals anticipated under the Department’s Client Intake and Assessment Process (CIAP).

The Rockhampton DOH office, alongside Caboolture, is set to commence piloting the Rent Connect program in July.  The program assists clients with low or moderate CIAP ratings to access the private rental market by providing; an advisory service helping with referrals, documentation and practical advice on finding and obtaining a property; interest free loans for rent in advance, moving costs, and utility connections; and a tenancy guarantee for rent and damages (under certain circumstances) above bond.

The Regional Tenant Group (RTG) maintains it’s momentum and over the last five years has increased it’s membership from 13 to 258.  Having a representative with the Community Housing Council for the past three years, has been a major advantage, as the group is now in a position to work with Community and ATSI housing providers to ensure that their tenants are included in future activities.