Struggling with Rent? The Private Rental Assistance Program (PRAP) Could Help
If you live in Victoria, are paying spending than 55% of your income on rent, and are experiencing financial hardship, there is support available to help you stay housed. One of the programs designed to assist tenants in these situations is the Private Rental Assistance Program (PRAP).
This week, I released a vlog on my YouTube channel discussing PRAP funding and how it can support people facing difficulties with their private rental tenancies. If you're experiencing rental arrears, fleeing family violence, your partner has recently been excluded from the home or are at risk of losing your home, PRAP might be the additional help you need.
What is the Private Rental Assistance Program (PRAP)?
The Private Rental Assistance Program (PRAP) provides financial support to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, helping them establish or maintain a rental tenancy. The program is designed to assist people living in private rental properties.
PRAP offers time-limited assistance to help households who are in a position to sustain their private rental housing with a little extra support. It’s a short-term solution that aims to stabilize tenants and prevent homelessness.
Who is Eligible for PRAP?
The PRAP program is aimed at households that can sustain private rental housing with limited assistance. To be eligible, you must meet one or more of the following criteria:
- At risk of losing your current tenancy – This could be due to a personal crisis, short-term financial difficulties, rent arrears, or a tenancy dispute.
- Currently homeless – You may be eligible if you are currently homeless but can be rehoused quickly in the private rental market with short-term support.
- Ready to transition from crisis, transitional, or social housing – If you are currently in social housing and able to sustain a private rental tenancy, PRAP can assist with the transition to the private rental market.
How to Apply for PRAP
If you believe you meet the eligibility requirements for PRAP, here are the steps you can take to apply:
- Google PRAP funding and the name of your suburb to find the community service organisation that holds the PRAP funding in your area.
- Contact the local organisation to discuss your eligibility for the program. They will guide you through the application process.
- Provide the required documents for your PRAP application. These documents will help them assess your situation and submit your application for funding.
Some PRAP Service Providers in Victoria:
- The Salvation Army – Karinya Support Services
- Launch Housing – Private Rental Support
- Unison – Private Rental Access Program
- VincentCare – Private Rental Assistance Program
Final Thoughts
If you're experiencing financial hardship and struggling with rent, PRAP exists to help. Don’t wait until things get worse – reach out to your local community service organisation today to learn more about how PRAP can assist you in maintaining your tenancy or securing a stable home in the private rental market.
For more information, make sure to check out my latest vlog on YouTube where I explain how PRAP funding works and how it could make a difference in your housing situation.