“We know that Canberrans are proud of our welcoming, inclusive culture and great quality of life.

“We’re excited that Rentwell provides investment property owners in the ACT with an opportunity to change someone’s life in a tangible and powerful way.

“Around the country and right here in Canberra, people on low incomes are experiencing a housing crisis.

“There are virtually no affordable rental properties on offer and the competition for the few that exist is fierce.

“Having affordable and secure housing gives people a chance to get their lives back on track and allows kids to form secure relationships at home, at school and in the community.”

This year the ACT Government passed legislation to provide land tax exemptions for investment property owners who lease their properties through registered community housing providers at less than 75 per cent market rent.

The scheme is in place under a pilot program until 30 June 2021 and is capped to 100 properties across the ACT.

How Rentwell works:

1. Property owners sign a head lease with YWCA Canberra, which means the organisation is responsible for ensuring rental income is paid.

2. YWCA Canberra identifies suitable and eligible tenants and sub-leases the property at below 75 per cent market rate.

3. Property owners apply for a land tax exemption through the ACT Revenue Office.

4. YWCA Canberra provides property owners with a tax-deductible gift receipt for any foregone rent (the gap between market rate and the discounted rate).

“If you own an investment property in the ACT and want to make a lasting difference in the life of a local older woman, single mum or dad, or a family, this is your opportunity.

“Together, we can build stronger communities and make Canberra even more inclusive, fair and livable for everyone,” Ms Crimmins said.