Tenant News October 2007

• Minister’s message

  All Queenslanders have a role to play to ensure we have enough water, both today and into the future.

• Director-General’s message

  As our Queensland population increases and housing affordability decreases, demand for social housing assistance is growing.

• Community spirit brings positive change for tenants

  A Brisbane tenant group is working with the Department of Housing to improve the lives of all who live in their urban apartment complex.

• Different people, changing needs—one social housing system

  The Department of Housing is making important changes to the way housing assistance is provided to Queenslanders as part of one social housing system.

• Changes underway to introduce a fairer social housing system for all

  The Department of Housing has recently made a number of significant changes as part of one social housing system.

• More information about the Ongoing Eligibility policy

  The Department of Housing introduced its Ongoing Eligibility policy in November 2006 to assess all tenants' ongoing eligibility for housing assistance.

• A new, easier way to make a complaint

  Making a complaint about departmental issues is about to become easier, thanks to the introduction of a new complaints management process later this year.

• Be aware of your water use

  The amount of water being used in Department of Housing properties has decreased significantly, thanks to the efforts of the department's many water-wise tenants.

• Checking your water use

  Check all plumbing fixtures for any drips or leaks. If you require assistance to check your home for water leaks, please contact your nearest Department of Housing office for advice or assistance.

• The trouble with termites

  Every year, termites cause more damage to Australian homes than fires, floods and storms combined.

• Floods and storms: one number to call

  132 500 is now the only number Queensland residents need to call for help from their local State Emergency Service (SES) during floods and storms.

• Improving services for independent living

  If you have a disability, or if you are losing mobility as you get older, the home you live in and how accessible it is can have a big impact on your life. It can mean the difference between living an independent life and requiring regular care or assistance.

• Convenient EasyPay option now available to tenants receiving Veterans' Affairs payments

  Department of Housing tenants who receive payments from the Commonwealth Department of Veterans' Affairs (DVA) can now choose to pay their rent and maintenance payments electronically via EasyPay.

• Independent living helps Scott pursue his dreams

  In 1996, Scott Wintle was travelling across Europe when a motorbike accident resulted in permanent paraplegia and a new set of challenges in the young athlete's life.

• Assets test for new applicants

  An assets test is being introduced as part of the process for assessing the eligibility of applicants for long-term housing assistance.

• Helpful reminders

  Remember to let the department know as soon as possible about changes in your household or circumstances.

• Tenant News goes audio!

  If you have a vision or other impairment that means it would be easier for you to receive this newsletter on audio tape instead of a paper copy, please phone (07) 3238 3970 to talk to a staff member.

• Maintenance contact details

  Maintenance contact details.

• Have your say on your newsletter

  Please contact us with your news, views, handy hints and ideas for future newsletter stories.