Rental Support Programs: What it means for WA Landlords and Tenants

17 Dec 2025 Posted By: PORTER MATTHEWS METRO

The Western Australian Government has announced an extension of key rental support initiatives aimed at easing pressure in Perth’s tight rental market a move welcomed by industry leaders and one that brings important implications for both landlords and tenants.

 

Incentives Extended to Boost Rental Supply

The Short-Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) and Vacant Property Rental (VPR) Incentive schemes have been extended until 28 February 2026. These programs provide financial incentives to property owners who transition short-stay or vacant homes into the long-term rental market.

 

So far, 810 properties have already been added to WA’s long-term rental pool through these initiatives, delivering much-needed additional supply.

 

REIWA President Suzanne Brown said the results demonstrate that the incentives are working:

“Perth’s rental supply is improving but remains well under what we would usually expect. Every home added to the long-term rental pool makes a difference.”

 

For landlords, this extension offers more time to take advantage of government-backed incentives while contributing to market stability and securing consistent rental income.

 

Rent Relief Program Supporting Vulnerable Tenants

The WA Rent Relief Program has also been extended, now running through to 30 June 2026. The program has already supported nearly 3,700 households, helping tenants clear rental arrears and avoid eviction during periods of financial stress.

 

Ms Brown highlighted the broader impact of the program:

“Rent relief is keeping people housed who may otherwise face eviction. That is crucial for them and has flow-on benefits for the whole market.”

 

By stabilising tenancies, the program helps reduce turnover, supports landlords with arrears recovery, and promotes a healthier rental ecosystem overall.

 

What This Means for Property Owners

For property owners considering whether to lease, sell, or hold, these extensions present a timely opportunity:

  • Financial incentives for transitioning vacant or short-term properties
  • Strong rental demand in a market still undersupplied
  • Greater tenant stability supported by rent relief measures

Source: https://reiwa.com.au/news/reiwa-welcomes-extension-of-rental-support-programs/ 

 

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