Tenancy assistance factsheet for clients

About Tenancy Assistance

The NSW Government offers Tenancy Assistance to eligible clients who have unpaid rent and/or water charges (that is, are in arrears). You can apply for Tenancy Assistance once in a 12-month period. 

Who is eligible for Tenancy Assistance

You are eligible for Tenancy Assistance if you:

• are an Australian citizen or permanent resident
• are a resident of New South Wales
• are eligible for social housing
• will not be paying more than 50% of your household’s total gross weekly income in rent on the property you are currently leasing
• have less than $5000 in cash assets
• can provide evidence of the arrears (unpaid charges)
• have an agreement with the agent or landlord to continue the tenancy for up to 12 months

How Tenancy Assistance works

You can seek Tenancy Assistance for rent arrears, water arrears or a combination of both. The maximum amount of assistance cannot be more than the equivalent of four weeks’ rent. Most clients will receive less than this. We will encourage you to agree on a plan with your landlord, agent or water provider to pay off the charges if you can. Tenancy Assistance is not a loan and does not have to be repaid. 

How to apply for Tenancy Assistance

Get in touch or visit your local Homes NSW Housing office or participating community housing provider for more information or to apply. 

More information on other types of private rental assistance is available at Private rental assistance factsheet for clients.