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It's official – Aussies who rent their homes are far worse off this Christmas than they were last year.
While most don't need a survey to confirm the cost of living squeeze, research has revealed annual rents up to $3600 higher than a year ago.
Everybody's Home analysed SQM Research weekly asking rent data.
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It showed the annual rise in rents from December 2023 to December 2024 in Australian capitals.
They found renters in capital cities are paying an average of $1593 more a year to rent a house compared to last year, while people in units are paying an extra $1084.
Adelaide renters living in units have copped the biggest annual surge, paying $3634 extra this year, followed by Perth house renters who are paying an extra $2985.
Sydney renters are paying almost $398 extra for units and $1107 extra for houses.
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Melbourne apartment renters are forking out $1234 more, with a house costing $1716 more.
In Brisbane the rise has been $1234 for apartments and $1280 for houses.
Canberra costs were lower for unit dwellers – just $29 – while the extra paid for houses year on year was $2567.
Everybody's Home is calling for action.
"Australians are struggling under the weight of ever-increasing rents. Paying hundreds or thousands of dollars extra in rent over the past year adds to an already unaffordable burden," spokeswoman Maiy Azize said.
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"We need immediate action to make renting a viable, affordable housing choice for Australians and we urge all parties and candidates running in next year's election to make it a priority."
