The NSW Government has slammed mentally ill residents in Harbord with a 100 percent rent hike despite the tenants’ inability to pay, said Manly MP Mike Baird who is pressuring the Government to show some compassion.

“Does the Iemma Government have a heart? We’re talking about some of our most vulnerable members of society and they thrust a letter in their mailbox demanding twice the rent,” Mr Baird said.

“Firstly, these residents are not well, cannot work and are struggling to pay their current rent. Secondly, it is an unbelievable way for our Government to treat those who most need stability and support.”

Mr Baird said tenants at Yindi House, a group home in Harbord, received a letter last week informing them accommodation fees would increase to $292.70 a fortnight as of 25 April. The tenants currently pay $148 a fortnight.

“The question is – how many are affected by this rent hike? Has the Government hit every mentally ill person in supported accommodation throughout NSW? 

“I have asked the Northern Beaches Mental Health Service for an explanation but was given none so I will be writing to the Minister to ask him to show some mercy.

“It is a cruel blow from a Government that has already shown itself to be incapable of managing the State. Now we see they clearly don’t have a heart.”

Mr Baird said he questioned the Minister Assisting the Minister for Health (Mental Health) last November about the Government’s plans to sell two group homes in the Manly area.

“Tenants at Yindi and Karimar have already been living with a cloud over their head after the Government flagged the properties for disposal last year.

“This is after it the Iemma Government pocketed almost $2 million in May from selling two other group homes in the area – Kalaui in North Balgowlah and Moondah in Seaforth.

“The Minister assured me that support would continue to be provided as needed, including specialist health care. Lumping residents with a 100 percent rent increase is hardly support.”

MEDIA: Lisa Harrington - 0406 726 880

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