REIWA launches new training to tackle family and domestic violence

REIWA has launched a new program to help property managers better identify and address family and domestic violence and ensure vulnerable tenants remain safe.

REIWA CEO Cath Hart said the Family and Domestic Violence Community Response Training for Real Estate had been developed in consultation with OVIS Community Services.

“The course aims to educate property managers to provide greater assistance to tenants who may be victims of family and domestic violence,” Ms Hart said.

“We know that family and domestic violence is the leading cause of homelessness for women and children so we’re proud to be supporting industry to respond if they identify this in tenancies.”

The launch coincides with the start of 16 days in WA, an annual State Government campaign to encourage change to stop violence against women.

“REIWA currently delivers a Tenancy Training program for various community groups to help people make the transition from homelessness to independent living as a tenant in private rental,” Ms Hart said.

“Ideally though we want to help prevent vulnerable people becoming homeless in the first place. The Safe Tenancy FDV Amendments to the Residential Tenancies Act have given tenants who are experiencing family and domestic violence more protection and this training is another step in the right direction.”

Ms Hart said property managers had sought support from REIWA on how to identify and respond if they encountered tenants who may be experiencing family and domestic violence.

“Through their regular property inspections, a property manager may be one of the few people to visit someone a person experiencing family and domestic violence in their home,” she said.

“Property managers may also be able to identify indicators of a potential family and domestic violence situation such as unpaid rent and property damage.

“The new program will give property managers the tools to better recognise family and domestic violence in the course of their work. It will also give them guidance on how to respond and refer affected tenants to appropriate resources and support.”

The first training session will be held on December 13 at REIWA Training, 215 Hay Street, Subiaco.