abilityNEWS Capital Region Edition
Do you remember when it was sunny and warm?
Author’s Note
Hi, and welcome to the first edition of abilityNEWS Capital Region!
We’re still testing this week, but from this week on we’ll be providing a special dose of news and information about the disability scene in Canberra, Queanbeyan, and the surrounding region.
We want this to be your newsletter too, so if you want to help or contribute please feel free to get in touch with me, Nic Stuart [email protected] or 04 10 278 827.
Local Announcements
Finding housing isn’t easy in winter (photo courtesy Anglicare)
This is what the rental crisis looks like in the Riverina.
Anglicare Australia’s recent Rental Affordability Snapshot (RAS) confirms the devastating reality facing families on low incomes. Across the country, rental affordability is at its worst level in over a decade. Rapid population growth and a housing supply that just isn’t keeping up means that families like this one are left with few—if any—options.
In regional communities the problem is made worse by a continued influx of city dwellers who are driving and keeping rents high. In the Riverina, the situation is further compounded by large infrastructure projects whose workers require housing, and whose budgets can afford it.
In the greater Wagga Wagga area rental rates have soared by 43 percent over the last five years, according to realestate.com.au—while vacancy rates remain 0.05 percent.
ACTCOSS welcomes bill to enshrine access to housing as a human right
by ACTCOSS
The ACT Greens have proposed adding the right to housing to the territory’s Human Rights Act, following sustained community advocacy. ACTCOSS and frontline workers argue this measure is needed due to daily evidence of rising housing insecurity.
Tackling hunger together—How we can help the 50,000 people a month being turned away from food pantries
by Anglicare
Rising demand and strained resources mean food pantries across the region are turning away nearly 50,000 people each month. Charities, communities and policymakers are searching for solutions to ensure vulnerable families do not go hungry. Anglicare is just one of the services in need of assistance.
The 50/50 Charity Raffle was held on 8th June, as the Canberra Raiders took on the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
by Hands Across Canberra
The Canberra Raiders hosted the South Sydney Rabbitohs on Sunday, 8 June, featuring a 50/50 Charity Raffle. Organisers hoped to surpass their previous fundraising record during this weekend’s match.
Hands Across Canberra is raising money for their Winter Appeal! Give where you live 💙
by Hands Across Canberra
Hands Across Canberra is encouraging residents to support vulnerable locals through tax-deductible contributions before 30 June. Donations fund housing, mental health and youth initiatives that aim to drive meaningful change within the community.
The Capital Diary
