Tuesday, June 11, 2013

Queensland TAASs and the State/Federal rollercoaster

More news just in from Queensland: the Federal Government will fund Tenants' Advice and Advocacy Services north of the Tweed for a further six months.


Perhaps we should back-track a little. You will recall that, only three short weeks ago, the Federal Government offered Queensland TAASs a "life-raft" - $2.5 million for the Queensland Government to keep TAASs going for another six months, on the condition that the State would ensure these services continue into the future.

Queensland rejected the offer, declaring that they would not formulate policy around what money they get from the Federal Government.

Today the Federal Government has announced it will give that $2.5 million straight to the Tenants' Union of Queensland, so that they can administer Tenants' Advice and Advocacy Services for a further six months.

This is great news, and we congratulate the tenants of Queensland for taking such a strong stand in support of their services.

But without a commitment from the Queensland Government - a commitment that they seem determined not to give - Queensland TAASs are still in limbo. All the more so, as the federal election looms.

This commitment from the Federal Government will carry Queensland tenants through the looming electoral storm. What happens next is anybody's guess.

In the meantime, some Queensland TAASs are closing their doors for the last time, as their highly skilled, experienced and committed staff must make tough decisions in the face of an uncertain future.

Follow Save Tenants Services for regular updates on the continuing struggle for funded Tenants Advice and Advocacy in Queensland.

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