National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS) Policy

POLICY STATEMENT

I. Purpose

To advise tenants and staff of their rights and responsibilities under the National Rental Affordability Scheme (NRAS).

II. Definitions

• An NRAS Property is a property funded under the National Rental Affordability Scheme.

III. Coverage

This policy applies to NRAS properties managed by Southern Cross Housing (SCH).

IV. Principles

Tenants residing in NRAS properties will be offered a fixed term lease for a maximum duration of 12 months, and given a termination notice to take effect on the date of lease expiration. Tenants who continue to meet NRAS eligibility will be offered subsequent leases on the same basis until they no longer meet eligibility criteria, or until NRAS funding ceases for the property in which they reside (whichever occurs first).

Funding for NRAS properties owned by Southern Cross Housing is due to cease between October 2021 and December 2024. Funding for NRAS properties owned by BlueCHP is due to cease between January 2020 and January 2024. Tenants residing in all NRAS properties managed by SCH will be notified of the cessation of NRAS funding, in the form approved by the Commonwealth Department of Social Services. Tenants will be given 90 days notice of the cessation. If a tenant is unable to remain in an NRAS property after cessation of funding, they will be assisted to find alternative housing.

If management of an NRAS property is transferred to Southern Cross Housing from another agent, Southern Cross housing will provide the investor a copy of the NRAS Code Of Conduct within 28 days.

V. Responsibilities

Housing Officers are responsible for identifying tenants residing in properties for which NRAS funding is ceasing and for providing notice. The Access and Demand team are responsible for assisting affected tenants to apply for alternative housing. Regional Managers are responsible for investor communications.