Unstable rental housing creating lifelong disadvantages for children, new study warns

Kids living in rentals move almost every two years and are more likely to live in conditions that negatively impact their development, according to a new report. Parents who rent are more likely to miss housing payments and their kids are more likely to live in overcrowded conditions compared to children in households that own their property outright, according to research by the Australian Housing and Urban Research Institute. Research lead Amy Clair said the disadvantages experienced by kids in rentals can influence all areas of their development. “There is a growing evidence base positioning housing as a critical determinant of children’s physical and mental health, behavioural outcomes, developmental vulnerability and educational attainment,” said Associate Professor Clair. MORE: 80yr low: proof Gen Z has it worse than anyone Kids growing up in rentals are more likely to experience negative impacts on their wellbeing and developmental achievements. MORE: Policy spiral’: How rental laws could hurt housing supply “Results were concerning, as housing impacts mattered most during developmental transitions, such as starting school, when disruption can compound other disadvantages. “...