In a heartbreaking story of hardship, Jakki Brooking, a 28-year-old single mother, found herself on the verge of homelessness just days before Christmas. The reason? A sudden and overwhelming increase in her rent, coupled with the cruel response she received from her real estate agent when she sought help.
Jakki and her young son Levi had called a Perth property home for the past six years. However, everything changed when they were notified that their rent would double from $300 a week to $630 starting from January 1. This steep rent hike came as the property changed ownership, leaving Jakki in a dire situation.
The new rent was completely unaffordable for Jakki, who works part-time as a nurse. If she stayed in the same place, over half of her income would be swallowed up by rent alone, leaving very little for other essential expenses, including her son’s appointments for his ADHD.
Faced with the harsh reality of potential homelessness, Jakki embarked on a desperate search for alternative accommodation. Despite having proof of stable income, she was rejected for all the rental properties she applied for. Her plea for a roof over her family’s head seemed to fall on deaf ears.
Feeling trapped and vulnerable, Jakki turned to her real estate agent for assistance. However, the response she received was shockingly callous. The agent informed her that if she didn’t vacate the premises by January 1, the new owners had the power to take her to court. The looming threat of legal action only added to her distress.
In a heart-wrenching video shared on TikTok, Jakki poured out her emotions. The tears in her eyes mirrored the weight of her predicament. She shared her story not for sympathy, but to shed light on the housing crisis plaguing Australia. Her story struck a chord with viewers from around the world, who responded with an outpouring of support and empathy.
Jakki had previously benefited from the National Rental Affordability Scheme, a government initiative aimed at making housing more accessible to low-income households. However, the new property owners decided to withdraw from the scheme and list the property on the open rental market.
As the pressure mounted, Jakki received a lifeline from a friend who offered her and her son a spare room. They decided to accept the offer, temporarily parting ways with their beloved dog and cat, who would be cared for by family and friends. Their search for more permanent accommodation within their budget of up to $580 a week continued.
In a follow-up video, Jakki addressed the critics who had questioned her decision to share her story. She clarified that her intention was not to complain about paying higher rent, but to bring attention to the struggle faced by many Australians in securing housing. Perth’s rental crisis had seen a 19% increase in property prices over the past year, with the city having the tightest vacancy rate among all capital cities.
Jakki’s brave decision to share her story has brought to light the harsh reality faced by countless individuals and families across Australia. With a housing market in turmoil and limited affordable options, her situation resonated with those who have experienced similar challenges. Messages of support, advice, and offers of help poured in, underscoring the urgent need for solutions to address the growing housing crisis.
As Jakki and Levi embark on this difficult journey, their story serves as a stark reminder that affordable housing is a basic human right. No one should have to live in fear of homelessness, especially during the holiday season. While they have found temporary respite, the fight for secure, affordable housing for all continues in Australia.
In a country renowned for its natural beauty and economic prosperity, it is crucial that steps are taken to ensure every citizen has a place they can call home. A sanctuary where they can build their lives and dreams without the constant threat of eviction or unaffordable rent. Jakki Brooking’s struggle has sparked a conversation that demands action and compassion, reminding us all that the fight for housing justice is far from over.
