Launch Housing’s Private Rental Assistance Program (PRAP) helps people like Michelle maintain their tenancies and stay out of the homelessness service system.

Practical and timely intervention

The current rental climate combined with increasing cost of living pressures means that many Melbournians are only one hardship away from homelessness.

Michelle was unexpectedly let go from her job. At the same time, her boyfriend, who had been living with her, stopped contributing to the rent. These non-payments led to Michelle becoming behind in rent, and eventually being served with an eviction notice from her rental provider.

Launch Housing’s PRAP and PRAP Plus program provided practical and timely assistance for Michelle. Recognising the matter was urgent, Michelle’s case worker immediately initiated negotiations with the rental provider, which included both the property owner and the real estate agent.

“In this rental climate and with a cost of living crisis combined with hardship and external stress factors, I would not have been able to communicate as clearly and articulately as [my Launch Housing case worker] did.”

Through these discussions, Launch Housing’s case worker was able to set up a feasible payment plan for Michelle to address her rent arrears. Launch Housing was also able to provide financial assistance to cover a portion of the arrears.

This practical and financial support prevented Michelle’s eviction and stabilised her tenancy.

Michelle’s case worker was a big advocate for her throughout the process. The case worker led the communications and negotiations with Michelle’s real estate agent, and helped Michelle present her case at VCAT.

This ongoing support helped Michelle keep her private rental and achieve housing security. Without the support, Michelle says she would have had to sell her possessions and live out of her car.

“It was truly life saving”.

Peace of mind to pursue her career

The assistance provided Michelle with peace of mind, knowing that it was a situation that she could overcome and there was light at the end of the tunnel. It also helped Michelle to focus on finding work.

“This level of security and lightened mental load afforded me the opportunity to pursue freelance work on top of holding a secure full-time job”.