The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) is proud to launch a new dedicated phone service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customers in NAIDOC Week 2025.

This year marks a significant milestone, the 50^th anniversary of NAIDOC Week. Celebrated under the powerful theme ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy’, it highlights the achievements of past generations while also looking forward to the future leaders and their vision for First Nations communities.

The RTA has launched its new phone line to better support our existing and future Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customers and is a critical step in our ongoing work to enhance our services for this customer group.

The service is available:

• by phoning 1800 524 212
• Monday to Friday from 8:30am to 5:00pm (free call).

Acting RTA Chief Executive Officer Kristin Spruce said the RTA wanted to make it easier for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander customers to get the rental information and support they need.

‘We understand that, as a state government statutory body, First Nations customers with private rental tenancies may be cautious about calling the RTA,’ Ms Spruce said.

‘Our new dedicated phone line will be answered by trained staff who will provide a culturally appropriate, sensitive and respectful service when answering questions about renting in Queensland.

‘Staff can also provide information about our free interpreter service which offers 15 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages.’

In Queensland, 33% of households rent. While there is limited data on how many of these households include tenants/residents who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander peoples, Ms Spruce said the RTA was working to better connect First Nations customers with the information and resources they need.

‘While the RTA regularly attends NAIDOC Week events, holds information sessions and engages with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peak bodies and support groups, our new phone service means we can now provide dedicated support all year round,’ she said.

‘Initial feedback from stakeholders suggests this will be a useful service for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who rent.’

Ms Spruce said the RTA would continue to work with stakeholders to explore other ways in which the RTA could improve its interactions and outcomes through rental sector engagement and Contact Centre services.

For more information, including a list of the 15 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander languages available via the interpreter service, visit Songlines – RTA Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander phone service.