VIC - Rooming Houses Lived-Experience Project - Commissioner for Residential Tenancies, Victorian Department of Justice and Community Safety - April 2022
Overview
The Salvation Army's submission to the Commissioner for Residential Tenancies in Victoria outlines its lived-experience insights and operational perspectives on rooming houses. As a registered Community Housing Provider (CHP), The Salvation Army Housing Victoria (SAHV) manages 16 rooming houses for single individuals facing significant disadvantage. The submission emphasises the importance of secure, affordable housing as a human right and highlights the organisation’s commitment to dignity and safety for all residents.
The document responds to a series of questions posed to rooming house operators, offering detailed feedback based on resident experiences, operational challenges, and recommendations for improvement. It also reflects on the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on housing preferences and the evolving demand for self-contained living environments.
Key Points
- Declining Demand: Demand for rooming houses, particularly those with shared amenities, is decreasing. Smaller, self-contained units are preferred due to greater privacy and security.
- Resident Experiences: Many residents report negative experiences in rooming houses, including exposure to violence, substance misuse, poor maintenance, noise, and feelings of abandonment.
- Common Issues: Problems raised include disruption to quiet enjoyment, presence of unknown individuals, suspected drug activity, and pest infestations. SAHV addresses these through support services and formal complaint mechanisms.
- Referral Pathways: SAHV receives referrals from various support agencies and existing residents, highlighting its integration within the homelessness and housing support network.
- Improvement Suggestions: Residents desire more self-contained facilities, access to on-site support services, recreational activities, and visiting services such as healthcare and legal aid.
- Commitment to Advocacy: The Salvation Army expresses its willingness to continue contributing to future consultations and projects aimed at improving rooming house conditions.