Life as an older renter, and what it tells us about the urgent need for tenancy reform

Reform in the private rental sector is essential. Growing numbers of Australians rent their housing and increasing proportions are expected to rent long-term. This makes it essential that private rental housing meets the need that every person has for a secure and affordable home. It is getting harder for older renters to find adequate, appropriate and secure housing. Older women – the focus of my work – are at particular risk. Their stories point to the role of flaws in the Residential Tenancies Act in compounding housing insecurity.