Start Work Incentive
Factsheet
Helping you keep more of your money when you start work
The Start Work Incentive (SWI) supports eligible Bridge Housing tenants who are starting work for the first time or returning to work after a break. It provides a 26-week rent freeze, meaning your employment income won’t immediately be included in your rental subsidy assessment.
Why Bridge offers SWI
Starting a new job can bring extra expenses like new work clothes or equipment and travel costs – the SWI 26-week rent freeze helps ease this transition.
Am I eligible?
✅ You may be eligible if:
- You are a Bridge Housing tenant or household member aged 18 or over
- You have been out of work for:
- At least 12 months (first SWI application), or
- At least 3 years (if you have previously received SWI)
- You notify Bridge within 21 days of starting work
❌ You are not eligible if:
- You are simply changing jobs
- You are moving from casual or part-time work to permanent employment
- You already pay market rent
How to apply
Tell us within 21 days of starting work
Submit the following to your Housing Manager:
- Completed Rental Subsidy Application
- Income details for all household members
- Income from Employment Form
- Employer offer letter
Note. All changes to household income must be submitted to Bridge within 21 days.
What happens next?
- Bridge assesses your application.
- If approved, you’ll receive a confirmation letter.
- The letter will explain:
- Your rent amount during the SWI period
- The date the rent amount applies from
During the 26-week SWI period
Your rent stays the same
You’ll have no rent increase due to your income* during the SWI period, helping you manage the costs of starting work.
* If someone else in your household has a change in income but is not on a SWI your total household rent might change. Your SWI only applies to your rent contribution amount.
If your circumstances change
If you stop working during the 26-week period, contact Bridge Housing as soon as possible so your rent subsidy can be reassessed.
What happens after 26 weeks?
Your rent will be reassessed based on your household income.
Most tenants remain eligible for a rental subsidy and generally pay between 25–30% of their income in rent.
Frequently Asked Question
Will my lease end if I start work?
No. Starting work does not end your tenancy.
Need help?
Call the Customer Care Hub – 02 8324 0800
If English is not your first language and you need assistance phone the Translating and Interpreting Service (TIS) – 131 450. They will call Bridge with you.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech impairment contact the National Relay Service – 1800 555 660 or accesshub.gov.au