Housing and Urban Development

Instant bond refund when both parties agree

When both tenant and landlord agree on the bond return, process it in 48 hours, not 2-3 weeks. The money is sitting in a trust account doing nothing.

Renter's rights wallet card

A wallet-sized card (or phone-saved image) listing your 5 key rights: minimum notice periods, what landlords can/can't inspect, how to dispute a rent increase, how to get emergency repairs.

"About to be evicted" hotline

Single phone number for anyone facing eviction in the next 7 days. Immediate triage to legal aid, emergency accommodation, and financial support. Not a referral chain — actual help that day.

Repair-response timer for tenants

Tenants log a repair request; if it's urgent (broken heater in winter, no hot water), a timer starts. If the landlord doesn't respond in 48 hours, tenant can arrange repair up to $X and deduct from rent. Already law in some states — make it universal and simple.

Council-backed shared housing matchmaking

Council-backed service matching compatible housemates (verified, references checked) for people who can't afford to rent alone. Like flatmates.com.au but with council backing and safety checks.

Free Wi-Fi in public housing

Residents in social housing get free basic internet. Reduces isolation, enables telehealth, job search, and connection.

Universal renter portal

Federal-state portal merging bond, condition reports, repair logs and tribunal filings into a single tenant record renters can carry between leases.

Modular crisis-housing factory

Government-funded modular housing factory delivering ~5,000 prefabricated units/yr earmarked for crisis, key-worker and community housing partners.