Scott Leary MLA Member for Albany said, “The WA Government must step in and act to protect families and children who are being repeatedly exposed to violent, criminal and deeply distressing behaviour associated with public housing properties in Albany.”
Mr Leary has repeatedly raised concerns with the WA Government on behalf of constituents who say they are living in fear and distress because of ongoing behaviour occurring in and around Department of Housing and Works properties.
Mr Leary said, “The Government has a responsibility not only to the tenants of public housing, but also to the broader community living around them.”
These concerns are not about denying anyone access to housing or ignoring the challenges faced by people in need. They are about the fundamental right of every resident, to live safely and peacefully in their own home.
“Community housing is a privilege, not a right,” Mr Leary said.
“Community housing is a valuable resource for people who genuinely need assistance, but that does not mean the privilege comes without obligations.”
“People who are provided with a public housing home are expected to comply with their tenancy obligations and respect the peace, privacy, comfort and safety of their neighbours,” said Mr Leary.
Mr Leary said, “When a small number of tenants repeatedly engage in behaviour that places other residents, in fear or distress, the Government cannot simply turn a blind eye.”
“We are effectively rewarding bad behaviour when people who continually breach the expectations of their tenancy face no meaningful consequences, while innocent families are left to deal with the consequences,” said Mr Leary.
“A year ago, I stood in Parliament and read a letter from an 11-year-old Albany girl who had been traumatised by her exposure to this type of behaviour. A child should not have to feel frightened in her own home. Sadly, that little girl is not an isolated case. I am aware of other families in Albany experiencing identical circumstances,” explained Mr Leary.
Mr Leary said, “The issue was not about punishing people who genuinely need housing assistance, but about ensuring that access to community housing came with an expectation of responsible behaviour”