No More Rent Increases For Pensioners In Housing Authority Accommodation

Pensioners living in Housing Authority properties will no longer face future rent increases following rent review exercises, after the Government introduced an immediate policy amendment aimed at providing greater financial security for older people.

Under the new measure, once a tenant's rent has been established on the basis that he or she is a pensioner, it will remain unchanged during future rent reviews carried out by the Housing Authority.

The amendment also applies to pensioners whose rent has already been recalculated as part of the current review exercise, ensuring equal treatment for all eligible households.

The Government said the change builds on recent improvements to the rent calculation mechanism, which have already resulted in fairer and more favourable assessments for tenants.

However, it said an additional safeguard was needed for pensioners who rely mainly on their pension as their primary source of income.

The reform forms part of the Government's wider commitment to supporting older persons by recognising their lifelong contribution to society and helping them enjoy retirement with greater financial stability and peace of mind.

Minister for Housing and Lands Owen Bonnici described the amendment as another example of a people-centred policy.

He said the decision was taken together with the Housing Authority because older persons deserve continued support through measures that make a real difference in their daily lives.

Bonnici added that preventing future rent increases for pensioners will provide certainty, stability, security and peace of mind to thousands of people who depend on their pension income.

The Minister also said the measure complements other initiatives introduced in recent years to improve the quality of life of older persons.

These include pension increases for 13 consecutive years, subsidies on water and electricity bills, and continued investment in affordable and social housing.

He said the latest reform further strengthens the Government's commitment to ensuring pensioners can enjoy a more secure retirement without the uncertainty of future rent increases.

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