As rental prices in Western Australia (WA) soar, families are facing an annual increase of nearly $20,000, sparking urgent calls for government intervention. New data reveals that the state’s median weekly rent has ballooned by over 50 percent since 2021, climbing from $339 in 2021 to $716 today. Advocates are urging the introduction of measures such as rent caps, extended notice periods for increases, and the elimination of “no grounds” evictions to protect vulnerable households.
Rising Rents and Housing Stress
A report released by the Make Renting Fair Alliance highlights that the average WA renter is now paying an additional $377 per week. This spike is a result of a prolonged rental shortage, with Perth recording a vacancy rate of just 0.4 percent in 2022, the lowest on record. During this period, desperate tenants offered up to 20 percent above asking prices to secure housing, contributing to today’s inflated rental market.
While recent improvements have nudged Perth’s vacancy rate up to around 2 to 2.5 percent, many areas, especially inner and coastal suburbs, are still experiencing rates near 1 percent or less. Consequently, this marginal increase has done little to alleviate pressure on rental prices, leaving no electorate with median rents close to $400, and only 17 percent of apartment markets remaining within that threshold.
Suburbs such as Cottesloe, Carine, Nedlands, and Churchlands have reported some of the most significant rent increases. Alice Pennycott, spokesperson for Make Renting Fair WA, emphasized the dire situation, stating that many low- and medium-income renters are being priced out of their communities entirely. “Suburbs that were previously considered affordable have basically disappeared,” she explained. “Renters need protection now, not in 10 years’ time.”
Voices for Change
Despite a slight uptick in vacant properties in outer suburbs due to new constructions, high-demand areas continue to draw long lines at property viewings, often resulting in multiple applications within hours. Kath Snell, chief executive of Shelter WA, articulated the human impact of rising rents, noting that families are now facing increased debt or are forced to sacrifice basic necessities. “Rising rents are driving overcrowding and homelessness,” she said. “Some people are going without medications or basic food just to keep a roof over their heads.”
Mark Glasson, chief executive of Anglicare WA, added that essential workers, including teachers and nurses, can no longer afford to reside in the communities where they work. He underscored the need to prioritize renter protection, as the proportion of individuals renting increases, particularly in the private market. “We must ensure they’re protected,” he stated.
Louise Giolitto, chief executive of the Western Australian Council of Social Service, pointed to the urgent need for action. She referenced the government’s previous willingness to implement temporary measures during the pandemic, such as the moratorium on rent increases in 2020 and 2021. “Now’s the time to try rent stabilization measures and ensure housing remains affordable amid rising living costs,” she said. Extending the WA Rent Relief Program could also keep families in their homes.
Advocates warn that without immediate intervention, the housing crisis in Western Australia will continue to escalate, further endangering families and their living situations.
