Brett’s story – waiving public housing debt for damage caused by squatters

Brett* was referred to Homeless Law by a support worker, while he was in prison, when DFFH requested he pay $11,200 in compensation for maintenance at his recently vacated public housing property.

The claim arose from damage which was caused by unknown third parties when they squatted in his property during an earlier period of incarceration. Brett was concerned that he was unfairly being held responsible for the related maintenance costs. Brett was particularly worried that he would not receive a future offer of public housing, due to the debt, which would directly impact his chances of reuniting with his five year old son.  

Homeless Law lawyers advised Brett about his rights, including that the debt could not impact a future offer of public housing. Homeless Law negotiated with DFFH to have the debt reviewed and provided supporting evidence. Through this intensive advocacy, DFFH was satisfied that the property damage had been caused by third parties and agreed to waive the entire debt. During Homeless Law’s engagement with DFFH, it became apparent Brett also had a rent arrears debt of $1,579. Homeless Law discovered some of the arrears occurred while Brett was in prison. Homeless Law advocated for Brett’s rent to be recalculated based on the DFFH temporary absence policy, resulting in the rent arrears being reduced by over $500.  

Brett expressed his relief at this outcome and felt more able to focus on reconnecting with his son on release. 

*Names have been changed to preserve anonymity