Following a chance rescue from homelessness, a Rosewood man is now encouraging others in need to ask for help.
Kym, 40, an experienced horticulturalist and former conservation land management professional, had successfully rented solo along with his pet dogs for years, despite his lower income on the disability pension.
However, his last lease at Redbank Plains was unexpectedly not renewed and, despite numerous applications, good rental history, and a fixed income, he was not able to secure a new lease.
“I’d apply for whatever I could find,” Kym said.
“The problem was, honestly, you go to any rental and there would be at least 10 other people there, and they would be offering rent up front. I was out-competed… And I had the dogs.’’
So, in May, last year, he put his belongings in storage and prepared to spend what he thought would be a week or so living in his car, while still searching for a home. RentConnect officer Andrew, of the Ipswich Housing Service Centre, helped him access a Bond Loan, Rental Grant, and Rental Security Subsidy, which helped him secure a lease on a one-bedroom duplex in Rosewood.
These programs are the type of financial assistance struggling renters can access through the Queensland Government’s new $160 million Renters Relief Package — part of the Homes for Queenslanders plan to tackle housing affordability and homelessness.
“I’m really enjoying it here. I love the community… I now have a place where I can leave the dogs while I go to an appointment.
Kym wants to reduce the stigma around homelessness and raise awareness of available housing support.
“I hadn’t told anyone I was living out of my car… I just said I was staying with a mate. Don’t do what I did. Reach out [and] accept help when it’s offered.’’
Anyone who needs housing assistance can contact the Ipswich Housing Service Centre on 3437 6000 or call the 24/7 Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753.
