Rental reality: Melburnian’s story reveals struggles of long-term renting

A 45-year-old Melbourne woman who has lived in a staggering 39 houses in her life says neither major party is doing much for people like her.

According to data from the 2016 census, only 67.1 per cent of people are currently owner-occupiers.

Melbourne renter Sharon Westin says she’d love to buy a home, but it’s out of reach for her, and constantly having to move is disrupting her life and costing her thousands.

The longest she’s lived in one house is six years.

“A couple of moves ago I think it was my fourth house in two years. I have two teenage boys, so that’s obviously very difficult for them as well,” she told Neil Mitchell.

“We’re at the mercy of the landlord, so if they want to sell we’re welcome to stay only if they get an investor, and most of the time, unfortunately, the people want to move into the house.

“In the last 15 years the rental prices have gone up, but I’ve also spent between $50,000 and $60,000 on moving house — Just on moving house.

“So any time I actually save some money I get that notice in the mail to say I have to leave and I have to spend another $5000 to $10,000 to move.”

Press PLAY below to hear Sharon Westin’s story