Start Work Incentive
The Start Work Incentive (SWI) helps tenants who are starting work for the first time or returning to work after a break.
If someone in your household is 18 or older and starts a new job, they may be eligible for SWI.
If approved, the extra income they earn won’t be counted in their rent calculation for up to 26 weeks (6 months).
This means their rent will stay the same as it was before they started work.
Who can get SWI?
You may be eligible if you:
- Are a Bridge Housing tenant or a household member aged 18 or over.
- Have been unemployed for:
- At least 12 months (if claiming SWI for the first time), or
- At least 3 years (if you have claimed SWI before).
- Tell us within 21 days of starting your new job.
How to apply
You can apply by submitting one of the following:
- An Application for Rental Subsidy Form plus income details for everyone in the household, or
- An Income from Employment Form and a letter of offer from your employer.
What happens after 26 weeks?
At the end of the 26‑week SWI period, we will review your rent.
Your rent will then be recalculated using the social housing rent percentage table.
If you have any questions call the Care Hub on 8324 0800 or speak to your Housing Manager.
This SWI information and the Social Housing Rent Percentage Table can be found in our Rent Policy