Victoria Study Reveals Discrimination Against Culturally Diverse Tenants

A recent study conducted jointly by the University of Melbourne and tenant organization Tenants Victoria found that tenants from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds frequently face racial discrimination in the rental market.

The research showed that 61% of respondents from diverse backgrounds had been denied housing due to their race or ethnicity, while 64% reported witnessing or hearing about racial discrimination during the rental process. About half of the participants were asked discriminatory questions when applying for housing.

The study highlighted that discrimination often appears in subtle forms. Some landlords or real estate agents may reject applicants based on their name, birthplace, or lack of local rental history. Some applicants even felt compelled to change their names on rental applications to increase their chances, leaving them feeling helpless and frustrated.

Jennifer Beveridge, CEO of Tenants Victoria, stated that the research confirmed longstanding concerns raised by multicultural communities. She emphasized that Australia is built on a history of immigration, yet new migrants often face the greatest challenges when settling, with housing discrimination being a major obstacle.