THE Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) is applauding the successful pilot of a domestic and family violence (DFV) rental prioritisation program and is calling on more property owners and property managers to get involved.
The Priority Project (TPP) is an innovative program designed to provide safe, accessible and secure housing for women and children who have experienced DFV – prioritising survivors by offering them early or exclusive access to private rental properties.
REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said that with the support of the REIQ, this pilot program had already made a significant impact in South East Queensland with planning underway to expand and scale.
“We are incredibly proud to support a program that’s already changing lives, and we invite property managers in the south-east corner to join us,” Ms Mercorella said.
“Since its launch in late 2023, The Priority Project has seen incredible success in housing women and children affected by DFV, with 38 women and more than 50 children already housed – more than double the pilot’s prediction.
“This pilot program has not only exceeded expectations but has already made a profound difference in the lives of those who need it most – the women housed say they are experiencing a sense of relief, stability, and the hope of a new beginning.
“Through this initiative, property managers and property owners have been instrumental in giving these women and children a fresh start, offering them a chance to regain control over their lives in a stable, secure environment.”
Ms Mercorella said women who had experienced domestic violence were able to access rental properties in a market where competition is fierce, bringing their applications to the top of the pile in the tenant application process.
“In all other respects, if there is a suitable match between a property and prospective tenant, the tenancy is managed just like any other with the woman signing the lease independently,” she said.
“I encourage property owners and managers to reach out to The Priority Project team to hear how supporting this project helps women and allows property managers to offer a no-pressure profitable philanthropy option to their clients.”
The role of property managers is vital to the success of The Priority Project. Property managers volunteer to support the program by recruiting property owners, sharing information about available properties, and processing rental applications for women who have experienced DFV.
Property managers can take a proactive approach by including TPP information in their communications with clients, especially when an upcoming vacancy is anticipated.
Property owners who wish to participate can voluntarily offer their properties to the TPP register, ensuring that women and children who need a safe space have priority.
To date the program has housed women over four council areas including Brisbane, Moreton Bay, Logan and Redland Bay.
The success of the pilot phase has led to plans for scaling up The Priority Project.
