Are you struggling to keep up with rent? The Housing Crisis Support Fund may be able to help - click for more information
Housing Crisis Support Fund
Please complete the application form to apply to the Housing Crisis Support Fund - click here for digital application form
Once you have submitted the application form, we will contact you requesting additional supporting documents. You can find a list of these documents below.
Are you struggling to keep up with rent?
Care is administering the ACT Government's Housing Crisis Support Fund.
The Fund is designed to provide targeted emergency support to private renters in low-income households to prevent evictions and improve their financial wellbeing.
The Fund provides a one-off payment of four (4) weeks rent, up to a maximum of $2,500. This is paid directly to your landlord.
The Fund also provides a one-off Crisis Support Payment of $250 to eligible private renters paying more than 60% of their income on rent.
Care can also assist with access to our other services and supports to improve your financial situation.
Eligibility
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Be a tenant or occupant in the ACT (excluding Jervis Bay) in a rental agreement - through a real estate or private landlord
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Have lived in the property for a minimum of 3 months
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Be experiencing Rental Stress or Severe Financial Hardship. This means:
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Rental Stress
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Your rent is over 30% of your income
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You have less than $5,000 of liquid assets (like cash, bonds, or stocks). Excludes superannuation
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Severe Financial Hardship
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Your rent is under 30% of your income
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You have less than $3,000 in liquid assets (like cash, bonds, or stocks). Excludes superannuation
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Are struggling to meet your living expenses.
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Have a net household income within the below limits:
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Single adult $64,992
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Sole parent $68,358
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Each additional adult $24,865
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Each additional child $21,562
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Required Supporting Documents
The following supporting documents are required in order to assess the application:
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Current photo ID - Driver's license/Proof of age card/Passport
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Most recent payslips (minimum 1 months' worth)
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Income statement from Centrelink/Superannuation/BAS/Other (if applicable)
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Most recent 30 days bank transaction history for all bank accounts
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Copy of current lease, sub-lease or occupancy agreement. Private landlords may be required to provide additional supporting documentation
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Proof of last rental payment (payment receipt or tenant ledger including payment details)
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Arrears notice or notice to remedy or eviction notice (if applicable)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the process?
A team member will review all documents provided and contact you if any additional information is required. Once all required information has been received, an assessment will be completed against the eligibility criteria.
If your application is approved, payment will be made directly to your landlord or real estate agent on the following Tuesday. You will also receive a remittance advice for your records.
Can I apply if I live in Jervis Bay?
No. Applicants must live in the ACT. Jervis Bay is not eligible.
Can I apply if I am in Community Housing?
If you are paying more than 25% of your income + Government Rent Assistance, you may be eligible for a Housing Crisis Support Payment.
Can I apply if I am in ACT Housing?
No. If you are having trouble meeting your expenses you can call the National Debt Helpline 1800 007 007 and speak to a financial counsellor
How much can I have in liquid assets?
You must have less than $5,000 in liquid assets. Individual circumstances may be considered, such as an international student holding funds to pay school fees.
Do I need to provide bank records for every account?
Yes. You must provide the most recent 30 days of transaction history, including account balances, for all bank accounts held by members of the household.
Do I need an arrears or eviction notice to apply?
No. However, if you have received an arrears notice, notice to remedy or eviction notice, please include a copy with your application.
Do I need to complete a budget before applying?
Completing the budget template is encouraged but not mandatory. It helps the caseworker identify referrals, supports and options that may be suitable for your circumstances after you receive the grant.
Here to help
Apply through our digital form below. For more information contact us.