16 April 2025

 

THE Rentstart Bond Loan scheme was expanded in October 2023, allowing victim-survivors of domestic and family violence to access a loan of up to 100 per cent of their rental bond to secure accommodation.

 

Since that time to 28 February 2025, 204 victim-survivors across New South Wales who would otherwise have been ineligible have been approved for the scheme and are in safe and stable accommodation.

 

The expansion of this scheme to all victim-survivors of all income levels recognises the urgency of a domestic violence response and removes a potential financial barrier which may be faced when leaving an abusive situation.

 

Prior to this expansion an income eligibility had to be met to access the scheme.

 

Member for Gosford, Liesl Tesch MP has welcomed the scheme’s timely expansion.

 

“We know that domestic and family violence is a key contributor to women’s homelessness in NSW, and securing safe and affordable accommodation is a critical hurdle for many women trying to escape abusive relationships," Ms Tesch said.

 

“This historic financial assistance has already helped more than 200 victim-survivors in getting a foothold in the private rental market, providing independence and stability when it is often needed most.

 

“By expanding the eligibility criteria for the Rentstart Bond Loan scheme, this Government is demonstrating our commitment to supporting victim-survivors and their children in rebuilding their lives and futures free from violence.”

 

The NSW Government is recommitting to creating a safer New South Wales for victim-survivors of domestic and family violence, including addressing homelessness. This includes:

 

Implementation of a Primary Prevention Strategy to address the drivers of domestic family and family violence.

 

Expanding the Men’s Behaviour Change Programs that work with perpetrators of domestic and family violence to reduce or prevent the recurrence of abusive behaviour.

 

Expanding the Staying Home Leaving Violence program across the state.

 

Investing a historic $5.1 billion for social and affordable housing, of which at least 50 per cent of new homes built will be prioritised for women and children fleeing family and domestic violence.

 

Annually, it is estimated that 7,690 women return to perpetrators due to having nowhere affordable to live, with domestic and family violence being the leading cause of homelessness for women.

 

More information on the Rentstart Bond Loan scheme is available here.

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