Reports have emerged mine contracting companies cut from Bowen Basin operations are leaving resource towns such as Moranbah and Dysart in droves, taking with them employees housed in rental properties.
THE global coal market downturn is believed to be contributing to an increase in the number of complaints lodged with the Rental Tenancy Authority.
Reports have emerged mine contracting companies cut from Bowen Basin operations are leaving resource towns such as Moranbah and Dysart in droves, taking with them employees housed in rental properties.
The RTA confirmed 50 disputes from the two mining towns were lodged with the government organisation in the past three months.
RTA chief executive Fergus Smith said the number of disputes was a “significant increase” on the same period last year.
“This largely involves mining accommodation,” Mr Smith said.
“The disputes are mostly about repairs and maintenance and bond disputes.”
There are more than 200 properties available for rent in Moranbah. A search of realestate.com.au found 217 properties available for rent, with prices steady at about $900 a week, a stark reduction from previous highs of about $3000 a week.
The RTA is a statutory authority that provides tenancy information, bond management, and investigation and education services. It also acts as an arbiter between landlords and tenants, and can provide dispute resolution between the parties.
The rental market squeeze is expected to ease further, following the State Government’s release of the second (and final) round of land-only lots at Moranbah.
The 29 land lots and 51 house and land packages were expected to further relieve pressure on the crippled property market.
Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said the Bushlark Grove estate would put 151 new homes in town.
“Moranbah has been subjected to severely limited housing options and very high housing prices and the accelerated release at Bushlark Grove is alleviating housing stress in the community,” Mr Seeney said.