Rent increases when you get a job
If you get a job or your work hours increase and you receive more income you may apply for help through the Employment Incentive Scheme.
This means your rent will be increased in stages over six months.
The scheme guarantees you can remain in public housing for at least 12 months from your employment start date or from the date your work hours increase.
Your tenancy agreement expiry date will not change if you have more than 12 months remaining on your existing lease.
Income and assets
To apply for the scheme you must have your income and assets assessed.
Your household must also earn a minimum wage of $200 per week before tax.
How rent is increased
Your rent is increased in three stages.
Stage one
For the first three months your rent is frozen at the rate before you got a job or increased your work hours.
Stage two
For the next three months, your rent is calculated as 23% of your pay received or at market rent, depending on which is lower.
Stage three
After six months, your rent is calculated depending on eligibility for the rental rebate scheme.
Go to rental rebates to read more.
If you do not qualify for a rental rebate, your rent will be charged at the market rate until your tenancy agreement ends.
If your income drops your rent could be recalculated.
How to apply
Contact your local housing office.