REIQ backs expansion of rental program supporting domestic violence survivors
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Photo by Jack Sparrow
The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has praised the success of a pilot rental prioritisation program for women and children affected by domestic and family violence (DFV), calling on more property managers and owners to support its expansion.
The Priority Project, led by Mission Australia and The Salvation Army in collaboration with the REIQ, offers survivors early or exclusive access to private rental properties. Since launching in late 2023, the pilot has housed 38 women and more than 50 children across Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Logan and Redland Bay – more than double the number originally expected.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the program had already made a meaningful impact.
“We are incredibly proud to support a program that’s already changing lives, and we invite property managers in the southeast corner to join us,” she said.
“This pilot program has not only exceeded expectations but has already made a profound difference in the lives of those who need it most – the women housed say they are experiencing a sense of relief, stability, and the hope of a new beginning.”
Mercorella said the initiative provided survivors with greater access in a tight rental market.
“Women who’ve experienced domestic violence are able to access rental properties in a market where competition is fierce, bringing their applications to the top of the pile in the tenant application process,” she said.
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Property managers play a key role by recruiting owners, promoting the program, and helping process applications. Tenancies are otherwise managed in the usual way, with leases signed independently by tenants.
Plans are now under way to expand the program to Ipswich, Toowoomba, and potentially the Gold Coast.
The REIQ is encouraging agencies to contact The Priority Project for more information. Elizabeth Lowe from Mission Australia can provide presentations to property management teams about how the program works.