Perth rental crisis traps residents in poverty

7News Just In · Jun 30, 2026 · 2m

Perth's social housing income eligibility limits of just over $500 per week are forcing residents to refuse work or additional hours for fear of losing their place on waiting lists that stretch beyond three years. A Shelter WA survey of 180 renters found 78% are concerned employment would jeopardise their housing status, while average Perth rents of $750 per week remain unaffordable for those on minimum wage. Western Australia maintains the lowest income eligibility thresholds in the country, trapping social housing tenants in a cycle of poverty as they cannot risk homelessness by earning…