Applications by Homeless Singaporeans for HDB Rental Flats
Ministry of National DevelopmentSpeakers
Summary
This question concerns the volume and success rates of HDB rental applications by homeless Singaporeans from 2013 to 2015, as raised by Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap. Minister Lawrence Wong reported that about half of the 400 shelter residents who applied were successful, with some receiving Interim Rental Housing on a case-by-case basis. Unsuccessful applicants typically had alternative options, such as family support or the financial means to afford a flat, or were already authorized occupiers of other homes. For those without shelter, the Ministry of Social and Family Development provides temporary housing and coordinates with social agencies to address root causes like financial instability and unemployment. Minister Lawrence Wong emphasized that HDB remains flexible for deserving cases while providing holistic support through counselling and advice on long-term housing options.
Transcript
26 Mr Muhamad Faisal Bin Abdul Manap asked the Minister for National Development (a) from 2013 to 2015, how many applications have been made by homeless Singaporeans for a flat under (i) HDB's public rental scheme and (ii) HDB's interim rental housing scheme; (b) how many of such applications are successful; and (c) what follow-up measures are being put in place to ensure that unsuccessful applicants have a roof over their heads.
Mr Lawrence Wong: From 2013 to 2015, the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF) provided shelter to about 900 individuals and families. Among them, 400 applied for a public rental flat. Around half of these applications were successful. This includes several who were provided with Interim Rental Housing (IRH), which is offered on a case-by-case basis and is not open for public application.
Those who were unsuccessful in their rental flat applications mostly had other housing options when they applied, such as being able to afford a flat or having family support. Some were existing owners, tenants or authorised occupiers of Housing and Development Board (HDB) flats but who were no longer living in their current homes for a variety of reasons, for example, due to family disputes. For those who have no place to stay, MSF will work with the social service agencies to provide temporary shelter while they find alternative accommodation.
HDB, MSF and the social service agencies also work together to help individuals and families address the underlying causes of their housing instability. This may include counselling, financial assistance, employment support and advice on their housing options. HDB will continue to exercise flexibility to provide rental flats for deserving cases.