The WA Government has extended key rental support programs, helping tenants stay housed and encouraging more properties to enter the long-term rental market.

The Short-Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) Incentive and Vacant Property Rental (VPR) Incentive will now continue until 28 February 2026. These programs provide financial incentives for property owners to convert short-stay or vacant properties into long-term rentals. Since their introduction, 810 properties have been added to the long-term rental pool, helping to ease pressure on Perth’s rental market.

REIWA President Suzanne Brown said the incentives are a practical way to add stock in a tight market. She noted that while rental supply in Perth is gradually improving, it still falls short of what would normally be expected. Every property added to the long-term market makes a difference, and the 810 homes transitioned so far demonstrate that these incentives are effective. Extending them gives owners additional time to contribute to increasing supply.

The WA Rent Relief Program has also been extended until 30 June 2026. This program has already helped nearly 3,700 households, assisting tenants to manage rent arrears and avoid eviction.

Ms. Brown highlighted the importance of continued support, stating that rent relief is keeping vulnerable tenants in their homes, which is vital for them and beneficial for the overall market. Extending the program ensures more at-risk households can stabilise their housing situation.

These extensions provide practical support for both landlords and tenants, contributing to a healthier, more stable rental market in Western Australia.