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Private Rental Assistance

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About this service FAQs
PRAP application form

What is Unison’s Private Rental Access Program?

Unison’s Private Rental Access Program (PRAP) helps people on low incomes find and keep a home in the private rental market. We do this by offering practical support, financial help, and working with renters to meet their rental goals.

Our team understands the rental market and works closely with local real estate agents to get the best outcomes. If you’re at risk of homelessness or struggling to keep your rental, our PRAP team may be able to help.

PRAP is more than just financial help — we work with renters to understand the reasons behind housing instability, offering tailored support that addresses the root causes. Whether it’s help with rent arrears, securing a new lease, or maintaining a tenancy, our goal is to prevent homelessness before it starts.

FAQs

Who is eligible for PRAP?

To be eligible for private rental support with Unison, you must meet eligibility criteria:

  • Your rent must be less than 55% of your household income.
  • You live in Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Melbourne (excluding the CBD), Moonee Valley or Wyndham LGA.

To seek private rental support outside of these areas, please visit the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing website.

How can I apply for PRAP?

If you meet eligibility criteria and you need help with your private rental tenancy, please click here to complete the PRAP Application Form.

Please contact our PRAP team if you need help with filling out your application:

Call: 03 9216 0304

What types of support are available through PRAP?

PRAP offers a range of support to help you find and keep a private rental home:

  • Help finding a rental: Attending inspections, setting up online profiles, liaising with agents.
  • Financial support: Assistance with rent arrears or rent in advance.
  • Practical support: Help with bond loans, condition reports, utility concessions, school enrolments, Centrelink, and more.

Tenancy sustainment: Ongoing support through PRAP Plus to help you maintain your rental long-term.

Can PRAP assist me with paying my rent?

Yes. PRAP may assist with short-term financial support for rent arrears to help you maintain your tenancy. However, we also look at the underlying reasons for arrears and may offer referrals to financial counselling or set up payment plans to help you get back on track. If you meet eligibility criteria and would like to apply for financial support, please fill out the PRAP Application Form.

Can PRAP help me to pay rent in advance?

Yes. Financial support may be available to help you pay rent in advance when securing a new private rental. Support depends on your income, rent amount, and location.

If you meet eligibility criteria and would like to apply for financial support, please fill out the PRAP Application Form. 

What is PRAP Plus?

PRAP Plus works in direct correlation with the already existing Private Rental Assistance Program (PRAP). This specialised service focuses on maintaining housing stability for clients already in private rentals.

The PRAP Plus team walk alongside clients, understanding their unique circumstances and providing practical, compassionate support to secure and maintain stable housing. Practical Support, Real Impact PRAP Plus offers:

  • Detailed condition report assistance
  • Utility account concession support
  • Practical help with local area orientation such as school enrolment guidance
  • Financial counseling connections
  • Centrelink navigation support.

Unison believes in empowering people. Our approach focuses on understanding root causes of housing challenges and providing tailored support that builds long-term resilience.

Who funds PRAP and how does it help prevent homelessness?

PRAP is funded by the Victorian Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) as part of a wider strategy to prevent homelessness. The program brings together government, community organisations like Unison, and the real estate sector to help make housing more stable and secure for people across Victoria.

PRAP Application Form

If you live in one of the areas listed above and you need help with your private rental tenancy, complete the PRAP Application Form.

PRAP Application Form

Support to Stay in Private Rental Housing

At Unison, we understand that navigating the private rental market can be overwhelming, especially during times of financial stress. That’s why our PRAP team takes a personalised, hands-on approach. We work one-on-one with renters to understand their circumstances and tailor support to meet their needs.

Our team provides more than just financial assistance, we give people the support, tools, and confidence needed to maintain stable housing and plan for the future. Whether it’s advocating with a real estate agent, stepping in during a rental crisis, or offering guidance through the application process, we’re here to walk alongside you. Our team’s strong local knowledge and connections with real estate professionals make a real difference.

A bearded man wearing a blue cap, sunglasses on his head, and a dark hoodie stands outdoors in front of leafy trees, looking at the camera with a neutral expression.
“It’s good now we have a roof over our heads, and I feel a lot of weight has lifted. I’m proud of my kids. They have been great throughout. I am so thankful. The whole process with Unison has gone well, I felt at ease with the team and their communication was very clear. ” 
Johnny, PRAP participant Read Johnny’s full story here