Managing your public housing rental debt

As a Homes NSW tenant, you are responsible for paying rent, water, repair costs for any damage, and any debts from previous tenancies. If you have outstanding debts from a past tenancy, you must repay them or set up a repayment plan before receiving further housing assistance.

For more information, see the Social Housing Eligibility and Allocation policy supplement.  

How to manage debt with Homes NSW 

If you miss a payment or make a partial payment, we will contact you to discuss repayment options. You can choose to pay the full amount or set up instalments.

Speak to your Client Service Officer about a repayment plan. They’ll work with you to determine an affordable amount based on your income, with a reasonable timeframe. We can also connect you with support services or financial counselling for additional help. 

Paying your Homes NSW debt 

Once we agree on a repayment plan, you can choose from several payment options:

• BPAY
• ePay (online)
• MyHousing app
• Centrelink deductions (arrange with your Client Service Officer)

Through MyHousing, you can manage your account, view personal information, and check your debt balance. You can register online or through the MyHousing app.

For more information, contact your Client Service Officer.

Unable to afford a debt repayment arrangement

If you are unable to make repayments, contact your Client Service Officer to discuss your options. We can also connect you to a support service to help you with financial options.

Access to support services and financial counselling

There are many services that offer support, financial counselling, and budget planning. To locate a service near you, visit Infoxchange Service Seeker or the Financial Counsellors' Association of NSW directory.

What to do if debt is due to domestic and family violence

If you are experiencing domestic and family violence and don’t feel safe in your home, it's important to seek help. In an emergency, please call Triple Zero (000).

If your property is damaged or you fall behind on rent, contact your Client Service Officer. You may not be responsible for damage caused by someone else’s criminal actions, but you’ll need to provide a police event number, statement, or other evidence.

If you want to change or end your tenancy due to domestic violence, speak with your Client Service Officer as soon as possible.

Tenants NSW's domestic violence factsheet offers further information on tenancy rights in a domestic and family violence situation.

What to do when you disagree with the debt

If you disagree with the debt, you can request a formal review at your local Homes NSW office. You generally have three months from the original decision to file your appeal.

If you need further advice, contact your local Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service, Community Legal Centre or LawAccess NSW.