This was such a good comment from Mary S but it was buried down the list of articles on our website so we thought we would put it up as a post.  These are Mary’s comments:

“I note an article in the Wynnum Herald, 22 August 2012 on the Tenant Advice and Advocacy Services in Queensland,(TAASQ). Mr Neil Symes MP member for Lytton states that the TAASQ service duplicates existing services. This is not correct, and Mr Symes needs to understand the difference between advocacy and advice. The Residential Tenancies Authority gives information to renters and landlords about the Act. Advocacy and advice is the help that TAAS services give to renters, to address issues, understand their rights and responsibilities, and prepare their case for the Tribunal. Walk down any main street and see the number of rental agents acting for landlords. Queensland has the highest proportion of private renters, and the lowest proportion of public housing and soon no advocacy services.

I asked Mr Symes why we cannot afford services for renters, when the government can afford to hand over $110 million for upgrades to racing, including $35 million to the Gold Coast Turf Club. Who wants to bet I got a straight answer? This government can afford better clubs for racers, but not advocacy services for renters”.

Mary S
Hemmant