Queensland renters will continue to have access to a free and independent advice and referral service over the phone, with the Palaszczuk Government committing ongoing funding for two more years as part of our commitment to delivering better services right across the state.
Minister for Communities and Housing Leeanne Enoch said the Queensland State-wide Tenant Advice Service, known as QSTARS, is administered by Tenants Queensland in partnership with a number of local organisations.
"Since the Palaszczuk government reinstated funding in 2015, this important service has been providing high-quality, free, independent tenant advisory services that assist tenants to manage and sustain their tenancy," Ms Enoch said.
"This support includes information to assist Queensland renters' understanding of tenancy issues, and their ability to understand and exercise their tenancy rights and responsibilities.
"QSTARS also has a focus on providing targeted resources and assistance for vulnerable renters who may require more intensive support to achieve positive outcomes in tenancy matters."
The state-wide advice line is available 9am – 5pm Monday – Friday, with extended hours to 7pm on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
Minister Enoch said the support provided by QSTARS was more important than ever, with unprecedented pressures being felt by many in the private rental market right across Queensland and in fact across the country.
"That's why we are extending funding for QSTARS for two more years up to 30 June 2025 and also boosting funding to Tenants Queensland by providing an additional $275,000 per annum (GST inclusive) this year as well as the following two financial years," she said.
"This will result in total funding for QSTARS of $17.4 million up until 30 June 2025 to help the service meet the demand currently being experienced.
"This funding boost will mean that Tenants Queensland can continue to provide renters with expert and independent advice at a time when Queenslanders need it the most."
Tenants Queensland CEO Penny Carr said she is immensely pleased with today's announcement.
"This announcement provides greater certainty to renting households across the state, many of which are doing it tough, with high rents and low vacancy rates.
"Knowing they will continue to have someone in their corner, to seek timely advice and support for their renting issues is warmly welcomed, Ms Carr said.
"Today's announcement will allow Tenants Queensland to expand our services to meet increasing demand, and help us identify which areas of the state have the highest need."
Ms Enoch said the additional funding for QSTARS was part of the Palaszczuk Government's broader commitment to delivering better housing and homelessness supports services.
"In 2021-22, the Queensland Government provided almost 200,000 forms of housing assistance, including rental grants and bond loans," she said.
"We are also investing $2.9 billion in social and affordable housing - the largest concentrated investment in Queensland's history.
"This investment means we can house more vulnerable Queenslanders sooner."
Anyone needing advice or assistance about a rental matter can call QSTARS on 1300 744 263.
Queenslanders who need housing or homelessness support can call the Homeless Hotline on 1800 474 753 or visit their local Housing Service Centre. To find the nearest Housing Service Centre, visit https://www.qld.gov.au/housing/public-community-housing/housing-service-centre.
