Sustaining at-risk Indigenous tenancies : a review of Australian policy responses

Description

Indigenous clients who receive support through Tenant Support Programs to sustain their tenancies, are linked to external support programs to meet their non-housing needs and avoid homelessness. This study identified 18 specialist tenant support programs in Australia in 2009, five of which provided targeted support to Indigenous people. The limited data available on the outcomes of tenant support programs, suggests positive results. There is also evidence to suggest that Indigenous clients gain an appropriate level of access to tenant support programs, although the administrative data is limited. Strong linkage with outside agencies is a key element that ensures the success of tenant support programs. These programs must not only address the immediate tenancy-related issues that led to referral to the program, but also the underlying needs of clients such as mental health concerns, drug and alcohol dependence issues, urban life skills and strengthening family relationships.