Responding to a welcome change in policy by the NSW Labor Opposition today, NSW Greens Rental and Tenancy spokesperson has renewed calls for the Government to put an end to no grounds evictions as a priority.
"We know that with holiday season fast approaching that thousands of families will be evicted from their rental home so that greedy landlords can cash in over the holiday period," Ms Leong said.
"Many people are renting for longer, and in many areas of NSW the number of people renting out numbers those with mortgages. These people, who are already feeling the pressure from astronomically high rents and other living costs, need some relief.
"For years The Greens have been committed putting renters rights at the heart of decisions about ensuring people in Sydney and NSW are able to live in safe, secure, affordable housing.
"This is an urgent issue that must be addressed. We will continue to work with the many organisations and groups, including tenants advocates and those services who support the most vulnerable in our community to push for an end to no grounds evictions in this state.
“Given Labor’s announcement today, the Government should act now before the annual eviction season begins.
“The mood is right, there is momentum for change, and Parliament should legislate to protect renters in the next sitting of parliament,” Ms Leong said.
Background on Greens campaign for rental reforms in NSW:
- In the lead up to the 2015 State election, the Greens in Newtown announced a package to reform renters rights - including calling for an end to no grounds evictions and the introduction of rent caps.
- Since then, the Greens have been campaigning for a better deal for renters.