Heathcote MP Maryanne Stuart said the decision to provide more frequent and up to date information regarding social waiting numbers would help angst and frustration among thousands of vulnerable people.

Previously, the data has only been uploaded annually and often out of date.

The unreliability of the data created unnecessary angst for those anxiously waiting for public housing.

However, the NSW Government will now publish data regarding the general and priority lists monthly to provide a clearer picture for potential tenants and stakeholders.

Mrs Stuart said the move was one of many initiatives the NSW Government has undertook – and will undertake – to reform social and affordable housing.

“This announcement will give a clearer indication of wait times for those on wait lists in both the Sutherland Shire and the Illawarra region,” Mrs Stuart said.

“We know the period from applying for social housing to receiving home can be particularly lengthy.

“It will certainly take time to reduce that wait list but we are determined as a government to be as transparent as possible regarding the situation with waiting times.

“The rise in rental stress, mortgage stress and the cost of living has no doubt increased the demand on the social housing sector.

“As a government we are focused on reducing that wait list, providing more social and affordable housing, and putting a roof over the head of those who are most vulnerable.”