Building Belonging: Reflections from the Tenancy Conference 2025

On 6–7 October, Circle Green Community Legal hosted the 2025 Tenancy Conference: Building Belonging at Karstens Perth. Over two days, lawyers, advocates, researchers, regulators, and community support workers came together to tackle the state’s most pressing housing issues — from public housing maintenance to human rights reform — and to shape a shared agenda for the year ahead. 

Welcome and Opening Addresses

A Welcome to Country by Sandra Harben grounded the event in connection to Whadjuk Noongar Boodja, reminding attendees of the deep significance of place, community and belonging. 

Trish Blake, Commissioner for Consumer Protection, then formally opened the conference, reflecting on the importance of tenancy reform and the critical role of advocacy, regulation and collaboration in supporting renters across Western Australia. 

From Insight to Action 

The program began with a keynote from Kate Davis (Murdoch University) on the eviction of children from public housing and a comparison of data between WA and NSW, highlighting just how far we have to go in advocating for public housing policies that don’t directly contribute to homelessness. Kate’s presentation provided valuable insights and opportunities for advocates and lawyers to utilise a range of legal arguments when representing tenants in Court proceedings.

On the second day, Tim Clifford MLC (Greens WA) delivered the formal opening address, urging a stronger government response to WA’s housing crisis. Tim reflected on the deepening pressures faced by renters, calling for urgent policy reform, from banning no-cause evictions to indexing rents to inflation or wages, and accountability measures such as a three-strikes policy for agents who breach their obligations.

The government needs to do better,” Tim said. “We need solutions that match the scale of the housing crisis. I absolutely believe we can do this together — and we must.

Technical and Human 

Throughout the program, sessions balanced the technical and the human: 

WA4HRA advocates made the case for a Human Rights Act in WA, framing housing as a human right under international law. 

Circle Green tenancy lawyers led substantive legal training on appeals, family and domestic violence tenancy matters, and common issues in public housing, strengthening practical skills across the sector. 

The Family and Domestic Violence and Housing Panel, featuring OVIS Mandurah, Orana House, and Great Southern Community Legal — explored what contributes to long-term safety and housing stability for people escaping violence. The discussion highlighted the need for coordinated responses, stronger housing pathways, and sustainable support for survivors rebuilding their lives. 

The Pride Housing Project (GRAI) showcased an inclusive housing model connecting older LGBTI people with LGBTIQA+ students to combat isolation and build belonging. 

The Ombudsman WA presentation by Brianna Lonnie highlighted how oversight, fairness, and accountability protect housing rights through complaint resolution and systemic reform. 

Closing on Reflection and Resolve 

An exclusive screening of SOLD! Who Broke the Australian Dream?, closed Day One with humour and hard truths, reminding everyone why the work matters. 

Day Two concluded with an In Conversation session between Jordan van den Lamb and Alice Pennycott, where Jordan offered a candid reflection on the urgent need for public housing.

We just need public housing. This is the answer to all the questions here,” Jordan said. “The private market isn’t going to do anything to solve anything when it comes to the housing question. The government will need to intervene.

As one attendee put it, “It’s about more than tenancy law — it’s about fairness, dignity, and the right to a home.” That sentiment carried through every discussion, reminding us that this work is not just about legal systems but about people and the communities they build. 

What’s Next 

The conference wrapped up with a renewed commitment to collective advocacy, practical training, and policy reform in 2026. 

A huge thank you to all presenters, partners, and attendees who contributed their expertise and heart to make Building Belonging a success. 

Read more about our ongoing work in tenancy and housing justice at Make Renting Fair