Many Tasmanian tenants and landlords fell on unforeseen hardship as a result of COVID-19, and we acted swiftly to assist them.
Our support packages for landlords and tenants have been among the most generous in Australia, and have helped to remove more than 78 per cent of rent arrears from the residential tenancy market, assisting both landlords and tenants.
As of Thursday, 24 December 2020 more than $2.58 million dollars in support had been paid to landlords and tenants who have been financially impacted as a result of COVID-19 measures that needed to be taken to protect the health and well-being of Tasmanians, and more than 3,000 landlords and tenants have applied under the COVID-19 Landlord Support Fund and the COVID-19 Rent Relief Fund during the emergency period.
These vital Funds have been widely accessed by both tenants and landlords.
Applicants must demonstrate they meet the eligibility criteria to access support payments. For tenants, this includes demonstrating financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Due to the ongoing effects of COVID-19 on the Tasmanian economy, in November 2020 our Government made the decision to extend the emergency period for residential and commercial tenancies until 31 January 2021.
And while we understand that circumstances associated with the pandemic can change very quickly as seen in other states, it is not our intention to extend the protections beyond 31 January 2021 unless circumstances change.
Our Government recognise the daily challenges faced by Tasmanians during this time of financial hardship, and we continue to provide the necessary support as Tasmania recovers and rebuilds from COVID-19.
More Media Releases from Elise Archer
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