KCLS CEO Matt Panayi spoke to ABC Kimberley on the WA Government’s announcement to reform the housing waitlist system.
Listen to the audio of the interview and read our media release below.
Media Release –
KCLS welcomes housing waitlist reform but urges Government to look at whole housing system
Kimberley Community Legal Services (KCLS) has welcomed the WA Government’s announcement to reform the social housing waitlist, shifting to a needs-based system that prioritises those experiencing the most acute housing stress. Under the proposed changes, housing allocations will consider factors such as safety, health, accessibility, housing circumstances, and cultural needs.
KCLS looks forward to engaging with the Government throughout the consultation process to ensure the lived experience of our clients is reflected in the reforms.
However, KCLS is concerned that this announcement is just one part of the puzzle to address the housing crisis in the Kimberley.
“On top of having extremely long wait times, we have some of the highest rates of overcrowding, and the highest homelessness rates in WA.” CEO Matt Panayi said.
“In the Kimberley, the challenge is much greater than who gets to the front of the ‘que’, we have a severe shortage of housing across the region that is not meeting the needs of our community and a failing maintenance system of existing housing stock”
KCLS is set to release a report later this year outlining the scale of maintenance issues in public housing and recommendations for reform, based off a community survey and case work centering the lived experience of Kimberley tenants.
“There are systemic challenges with how maintenance is delivered, including delays, costs, and the condition of ageing housing stock – addressing these issues is just as important as increasing supply.” Mr Panayi said.
“This announcement is an important step forward, and we look forward to working constructively with Government on the broader reforms needed to improve housing outcomes across the Kimberley.”
Media contact:
Akira Boardman
akira_boardman@kcls.org.au
0431 385 255
