Public Housing

In reply to the Hon. R.A. SIMMS ().4 June 2024).

The Hon. C.M. SCRIVEN (Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development, Minister for Forest Industries): The Minister for Housing and Urban Development has advised:

The South Australian Housing Trust has a clear plan for the staged relocation of tenants within the Seaton redevelopment.

All tenants in the area have been written to, including those in the first stages of relocations, those that will move in future stages, and also a small group of tenants that are not required to move.

The South Australian Housing Trust has an extensive history and established policy, procedures and staff that cover relocation activities.

The tenants in the first stages of relocations will be contacted via phone to discuss their relocation and:

the timeline for the relocation

why they need to relocate

explain the relocation process

what support can be provided–including phone, gas and electricity connection fees, mail redirection for three months and reasonable moving costs

tenant housing needs and preferences

reasonable reimbursement of property improvements made by tenants

any other questions or concerns.

As part of their tenancy agreement, the South Australian Housing Trust has the ability to relocate people in the circumstances of redevelopment.

Staff will work with tenants on a one to one basis to find a new public housing home that meets their needs.

The government appreciates the importance of tenants' existing property and understand that moving home can be a big change. For some tenants it is a real opportunity to move into better accommodation while others might feel anxious and worried.

The South Australian Housing Trust will support tenants and have established additional support services available in this situation.

Tenants can call 1300 918 814 for more information.

In the specific case of Seaton, the age and condition of the properties is impacting tenants as the property is no longer suitable for them.

The local staff have received a number of transfer requests from existing tenants, so for some, relocations will be a positive opportunity that better meets their housing needs.