If you can't afford the normal costs of housing, such as full private rental rates, there are several State and Federal Government assistance programs to help you.
Rent assistance
If you're receiving Centrelink benefits, such as Newstart, ABSTUDY or Austudy, you may be eligible for Rent Assistance, where the government pays you an extra allowance on top of your normal benefit to help subsidise your rent costs.
Visit the Centrelink (new window) website for more details about whether you qualify for Rent Assistance and how you can apply.
Bond assistance
If you're moving into a rental property, you usually have to pay a bond or security deposit, which is generally one month's rent.
If you can't afford the bond, you may be able to get a Bond Loan (new window) from your local Housing Office.
Public housing
Public Housing is a scheme where the Victorian Government's Office of Housing (new window) provides housing for people who can't afford to rent at full private rental rates. The government housing rent is well below private rates and is based upon your level of income.
Public housing is in high demand, so you may be wait listed.
Emergency accommodation
If you're homeless or at risk of becoming homeless and you are in immediate need of help with somewhere to live, the Office of Housing can help you.
See the 'Emergency accommodation' page in this section for more information.
First home owner grant
If you're buying or building your first house, the Victorian government will assist you with a First Home Owner Grant (external link).
This is a one-off payment of up to $7000 payable to eligible first home owners to help with your purchase or construction.
Links
Bond Loan Scheme
Find out about the Bond Loan scheme, whether you are eligible and how to apply.
Office of Housing - Emergency Accommodation Contacts
Find out who to contact in your area about emergency housing.
State Revenue Office - First Home Owner Grant
Information about the First Home Owner Grant, a one-off payment of up to $7000 will be payable to eligible first home owners to help with their purchase or construction.
Centrelink - Rent Assistance
Find out more about Rent Assistance - a payment added on to the allowance or benefit of eligible people who rent in the private rental market.
Centrelink - Rent Assistance Eligibility
Find out if you are eligible for Rent Assistance.
