The South Australian opposition is calling for tougher action to be taken against housing trust tenants who deliberately trash their own homes.

Reports have emerged about a Paradise housing trust property in poor condition, highlighting growing concerns for the thousands of South Australians currently waiting for public housing options.

Images from the property show significant damage, including a collapsed ceiling, a smashed window, and a backyard filled with rubbish. 

“It smells like urine in here,” a nearby resident said.

The state opposition says tenants who damage public housing should not be re-housed until the full cost of repairs is covered. 

“With so many individuals currently homeless, we can’t allow those who damage these valuable community assets to go unpunished,” stated Opposition Leader Vincent Tarzia.

According to information acquired through freedom of information, as of April 30, over 15,000 South Australians are listed on the public housing waitlist, with 3,783 identified as Category 1, the most critical priority cases.

At the same time, more than 1400 public housing properties are vacant, requiring maintenance or redevelopment.

Residents reported lodging complaints about the Paradise property as far back as 2023. 

According to reports, the tenant was evicted last week after the house was boarded up and bailiffs arrived. 

Despite the eviction, concerns remain for the former tenant’s welfare. 

“I’m glad she’s gone, but on the other hand I do worry – does she have somewhere to live?” David said.

The government maintains tenants who engage in misconduct will face consequences. 

“We are cracking down on antisocial behaviour,” Housing Minister Nick Champion said. 

“We’ve adopted a three written warnings policy, we’re taking more matters to the tribunal than ever before.”