Wendell's Diary

**Introduction:** Australia’s rental market has reached a point where securing a home is increasingly difficult for many. Rising rents, high competition, and limited availability make finding a rental property a significant challenge. For those lucky enough to receive social housing, the burden is alleviated, but for others, the struggle continues. This situation not only reflects economic realities but also raises philosophical questions about luck, fairness, and societal responsibilities. **The Reality of the Rental Market:** The median rent in Australia has surged past $600 per week, driven by factors such as increased demand, limited supply, and high competition [[❞]](https://www.domain.com.au/research/rental-report/march-2024/) [[❞]](https://www.rent.com.au/blog/march-2024-rent-com-au-rental-market-snapshot). Major cities like Sydney and Melbourne have seen particularly sharp increases, with vacancy rates at record lows [[❞]](https://www.corelogic.com.au/news-research/news/2024/au...

Having experienced homelessness firsthand, I understand deeply the critical role that social housing plays in improving lives. For five years, I was without a home, traveling long distances to sleep in the wilderness because I couldn’t sleep on the streets. I was in constant search of a home, moving from place to place, unable to afford the bond for a rental. Receiving social housing from the Australian government was a turning point in my life. It allowed me to establish a routine, develop good practices, and spend time at home focusing on my personal growth. I could study, make videos, and write blogs in a stable and safe environment, something I couldn’t fully do while homeless. The stability and security of having a home made me feel much healthier and better overall. Since being housed, I have been able to collect things, get a dog, and enjoy a much-improved life. I’ve found stability and financial security, and everything in my life has been getting better and better. The foundat...