There is no such thing as a ‘typical’ social housing tenant in WA. Instead, there are a range of real people from different backgrounds dealing with different and challenging circumstances. Social housing is for those most in need, for the duration of their need.
Many social housing tenants are employed but are on low incomes and not able to afford to rent privately. Other tenants have disabilities or other reasons that prevent them from being employed. Some people who never thought they would require social housing end up needing short-term assistance to get back on their feet after difficult circumstances such as illness, divorce, financial issues and job loss. Once they are able to support themselves again, they then transition back into the private rental market or even home ownership.
Others, such as the elderly, people escaping domestic violence situations and those with disabilities, may need housing assistance for longer.