Private Rental Assistance Program

PRAP has been established to work directly with people who are homeless, or at risk of experiencing homelessness. The program works to secure and sustain housing in the private rental market.

PRAP can provide support to people who may have previously experienced challenges in securing private rental. Support can include direct one-on-one assistance to complete applications, advocacy with property managers and information on how to search for private rental properties.

PRAP has access to financial assistance to support people to move into or remain living in private rental housing. Brokerage is available to assist with a wide range of housing related costs, including:

• Rent in advance
• Rental arrears
• Rental subsidies
• Storage costs
• Removalists
• Residential Bonds (where the Bond Loan Scheme is not available)
• Housing establishment costs including utility connection fees, household furniture, and white goods
• Minor property modifications
• Life skills training including financial management and budgeting

How does PRAP work?

PRAP provides support to households that is flexible and tailored to individual needs. The program includes a dedicated PRAP Worker who is responsible for establishing and maintaining positive relationships with real estate agents and private landlords. Building these relationships is important, as it assists PRAP clients when submitting rental applications. The program also employs a Brief Intervention Worker who can provide immediate and dedicated support to households throughout the process. The Brief Intervention Worker supports households to link in with services or programs if required.

PRAP also provides a check-in service for all households. This is a friendly phone call every few months to make sure households are feeling settled and secure in their private rental properties. If households are experiencing challenges or difficulties, they can receive further support to address those concerns.

What is the eligibility criteria for PRAP?

• Aged 18 years and older
• Currently homelessness or at risk of experiencing homelessness
• Residing in or has existing links to the Moreland or Hume areas
• Receiving a stable income (including wages, Centrelink income support, or self-employed)
• Committed to residing in private rental as a long-term housing option
• Prepared adhere to the Residential Tenancies Act (1997)

How to make a referral to PRAP?

Households that require assistance to establish a private rental tenancy or maintain their current private rental property can contact the VincentCare Initial Assessment and Planning (IA&P) Team on 9304 0100.

Staff will arrange a time to meet to discuss available options and make a referral to the PRAP program if appropriate.

Services wishing to make a referral to the PRAP program can contact the PRAP worker on 9304 0104 and ask for an application form. The PRAP worker will send through the necessary information to be completed and returned. The application will then be assessed and the worker informed of the outcome.

For more information on the PRAP Program, please contact PRAP on 9304 0104.