Case 55: Preventing the eviction of a person with an intellectual disability

Photo by Gary Radler

Action for More Independence and Dignity in Accommodation (AMIDA), along with Tenants Union Victoria (TUV), used the Charter protect the rights of a person with an intellectual disability who had been given a notice to vacate his rooming house based upon his behaviour. The man’s behaviour was a consequence of his disability. AMIDA and TUV used the Charter to open up discussions with the landlord about its human rights obligations. Consequently, the landlord considered the Charter and agreed to an alternative course of action. The final agreement meant that the man could stay in the rooming house for six months while looking for alternative accommodation, so long as no house rules were breached. At the end of the six months, the man had not breached any house rules and the landlord allowed for him to remain in the premises.

Source: Action for More Independence and Dignity in Accommodation, Submission for Review of the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006