Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has justified evicting tenant Jim Flanagan from his Dulwich Hill property, citing personal circumstances and market rates. Flanagan, a long-term tenant, faces eviction as Albanese prepares to sell the property ahead of his wedding.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has defended his decision to evict tenant Jim Flanagan from a property he owns in Dulwich Hill, Sydney. The three-bedroom townhouse, which Albanese purchased in 2015 for $1.175 million, is now set to be sold due to his impending marriage to partner Jodie Haydon.
Flanagan, a bar owner, has lived in the property for four years and was given 90 days’ notice to vacate. The Prime Minister stated that he intends to sell the property as his personal circumstances have changed. He noted that Flanagan’s rent was significantly reduced during the pandemic from $900 to $680 weekly, and had not been raised since. This rate is below the current market value of approximately $800 per week.
Flanagan, who has previously praised Albanese as a landlord, went public with the eviction notice, calling it a “crippling blow.” Despite requests to stay longer, Albanese emphasized that he has been fair, and claims that Flanagan has refused discussions with the rental agent. Flanagan remains on a month-to-month lease and acknowledged the Prime Minister’s legal right to sell the property.
Albanese reflected on the current housing market and his need to make personal decisions, noting that the property purchase was made under different personal circumstances. He also highlighted that his property portfolio, once valued at $5 million, has been adjusted over the years.