Grim picture for Aussie renters

Adelaide: Australians are feeling the pinch this Christmas, with rent prices climbing steeply. A recent report shows that many are paying thousands more than last year just to keep a roof over their heads.

According to the analysis by Everybody’s Home, the average rent for a house has jumped by about $1,593 annually. If you’re renting a unit, you’re looking at an extra $1,084.

Adelaide has seen the biggest hike in rents among the capital cities, with units costing an average of $69.89 more per week. Houses aren’t far behind, with an increase of $50.94 weekly.

Perth is also feeling the heat, with rents rising by about $55.11 for units and $57.42 for houses. Sydney, known for its high rental prices, has seen smaller increases, but it’s still a lot for many families.

Brisbane and Melbourne are in the same boat, with both cities experiencing similar rent hikes. Hobart isn’t escaping either, with noticeable increases in rental prices.

Maiy Azize from Everybody’s Home highlighted the tough situation many renters are in. She mentioned that people are sacrificing basic needs just to make rent, and the top wish for many this Christmas is a rent cut.

With the holidays approaching, many families are worried about how to balance rent with other expenses like food and gifts. The Albanese government has promised to build 1.2 million new homes by the decade’s end, but there are doubts about whether this goal is realistic.

While there’s a general agreement among political parties about the housing crisis, they have different ideas on how to tackle it. The Coalition and the Greens have previously stalled legislation aimed at improving home ownership and rental properties.

Azize stressed the need for immediate action to make renting a more affordable option. She urged all political candidates to prioritize this issue in the upcoming election, calling for a plan to address the social housing shortfall and protect renters from unfair increases.