Tips: Renting around Koori Knockout

The Koori Knockout (KO) is an annual football competition that draws crowds of over 40,000 spectators.

In 1971 at the Clifton Hotel in Redfern, six deadly blackfullas created what is today the largest gathering of First Nations people in NSW. It is run by and for the Aboriginal community, largely funded from private sponsorship and community support.

Today men’s and women’s teams come together from Aboriginal Nations across NSW, and across all ages, to battle it out and claim the ultimate prize – hosting the next KO on their country!

Training and preparation for the KO often starts months before the October long weekend. Planning ahead for your rent and home can help protect your tenancy if you’re going to be away. 

• Work out how long you’ll be away and, if possible, pay rent in advance so you don’t have to worry about it while travelling or when you return. 
• If paying ahead isn’t an option, consider setting up Centrepay (a service for people receiving Centrelink that automatically deducts money from your payment for essential bills) or a direct debit, so rent is paid automatically on a date that works for you. 

This helps prevent getting behind in rent and reduces the risk of tenancy problems while you’re away. 

Unplug appliances, turn off power at the wall, and clear out your fridge if you’ll be away for a while. Avoid leaving rubbish or food that could attract pests and lead to cleaning costs. Lower bills mean more money left to keep your rent up to date. 

Avoid unexpected expenses: Ask trusted family, friends or a neighbour to check on pets, plants, and mail so nothing at home causes problems while you’re away. 
This helps keep your place safe and prevents any issues that could affect your tenancy.

Do a quick property check before you go: Check windows, taps, and appliances. Fixing small issues now (like a running toilet or a leaking tap) avoids bigger bills later that could impact your rent. 

Most housing providers allow visitors, including family and friends, to stay from time to time. However issues sometimes arise when visitors stay for longer periods. 

Because the rules differ between housing providers, it’s important to check your tenancy agreement, housing policy or tenant handbook, before someone stays for an extended time. 

General rules to be aware of: 

Your tenancy agreement usually sets a maximum number of people who can live in the property. If extra people stay longer than allowed, this may be seen as a breaking the rules of your tenancy agreement – this could put your tenancy at risk. Longer stays may also affect your rent, so housing providers often require notification. 

Examples of different provider rules: 

Homes NSW and Aboriginal Housing Office (AHO): 

• Visitors generally cannot stay longer than 4 weeks (28 days) without approval. 
• Tenants must notify Homes NSW if visitors stay for an extended period. 

Many Rivers Housing: 

If a visitor plans to stay longer than 2 weeks, you must notify your Tenancy Support Officer 

You are responsible for your guests 

It is also important to note that you are generally responsible for your visitors’ behaviour. This includes any damage to property, repair costs or antisocial behaviour. 

This does not apply where issues arise from domestic violence-related circumstances. 

If your housing provider raises concerns about visitors or suggests you may be breaking your agreement, call your local Aboriginal Tenancy Advice and Advocacy Service for advice.

Contact your local Aboriginal Tenants’ Advice and Advocacy Service as soon as possible. They can tell you whether urgent action is needed, help you request more time, or support you to respond safely. 

• Don’t sign or agree to anything.
• Keep copies of all letters, texts, or emails you receive. 
• If you come home to a notice, get advice before responding.