Renters & Housing Union

“On the Western Australia State election”

It’s a busy time for politicians in Western Australia, as both Federal and State elections loom on the
horizon. Already, we can see hollow, soulless expressions of politicians adorned with too-wide smiles on
street corners.

In a sudden burst of insincerity, these politicians are scrambling to feign compassion for renters. Reality
is glaring: most of them can’t even muster the decency to pretend to give a damn. Every major party, with
the exception of the Greens, has declared opposition to ending the disgraceful practice of no-fault
evictions.

THE LIBERALS

The Liberals wear a façade of concern for renters while spreading misinformation and fanning flames of
division in society. They boast about commitment to “increasing supply” of housing but continually
resisted any efforts to build in their precious Golden Triangle, prioritising their own home values over
people.

THE NATIONALS

The Nationals make a show of caring, lamenting the dismal housing situation outside Perth and in the
regions. Yet, they remain silent as the Airbnb crisis escalates, inflating rents and destroying rural towns.
Their inaction only perpetuates a cycle of destruction that we hurts our must vulnerable in the regions.

LABOR

Labor takes pride in touting their policies as effective, pointing to a slight uptick in rental vacancy rates.
But those rates linger far below what would be considered “normal” in other Australian states. And even
when they do reach those “normal” levels, it merely translates to renters still being on the back foot,
finding themselves at the mercy of landlords who hold all power in rental negotiations.

THE GREENS

And while the Greens stand as a beacon against no-fault evictions, they too are problematic. Their lack
of action and silence on the ongoing resistance against the eviction of Community organisation from
former Sister Kate’s facility is disheartening. Fundamentally, The Greens remain committed to rentals and
housing being a market, and oppose abolishment of landlords. It’s no surprise they’re running a landlord
in the upper house.

THE ELECTION

Elections may come and go, yet regardless of which party takes the lead, the plight of renters only
worsens. This grim reality is hardly a surprise. Those at the helm of decision-making have shown time
and again that they possess little genuine interest in alleviating the struggles of renters.

But amidst this bleak landscape, renters in WA are rising together, and finally fighting back. This is the
very essence of RAHU WA, and it’s why our branch has seen a surge in membership, more than
quadrupling in our first year.

When renters unite, we break from being reduced to mere pawns in every election cycle, liberated from
the ever-changing whims of political parties. Together, we will forge a path toward justice, dignity, and
respect—a future where our voices echo with power and our needs are met with genuine commitment.

For media enquires:
0437227463
[email protected]
[email protected]