Labor applauds initiatives announced today to protect Tasmanians from eviction during the COVID-19 crisis.
Labor Leader Rebecca White said the Bill passed today by the Parliament will help ease the pressure on people renting their homes.
"Thousands of Tasmanians are struggling under the weight of sudden unemployment and need immediate help just to get by," Ms White said.
"Labor has been calling for protection for tenants who might struggle to pay their rent because they might have lost their job or lost income due to COVID-19.
"All Tasmanians in rental accommodation will now be able to focus on their health and safety without the threat of eviction during this health emergency.
"These protections also extend to commercial tenants, many of whom have experienced severe impacts on their trade as a consequence of COVID-19.
"No commercial tenant can be evicted from their property during this emergency, which should give some comfort to businesses worried about how they will cover their rent during this crisis.
The Labor party encourages landlords to work with their banks to take advantage of the payment deferrals that have been offered so that they can pass these savings onto their tenants.
"There is a need for banks, landlords and tenants to work together during this period so that not only is no one faced with eviction, but to also ensure that no one is forced into financial hardship.
"As I've said before, we are all in this together and no-one should face the prospect of homelessness during a health crisis."
Rebecca White
Labor Leader
