Sick grandmother's bid to protect family

Terminally ill public housing grandmother Edwina lived with her daughter and three-year-old grandchild and she had become concerned for the safety of her family.

The visitors to Edwina’s neighbouring tenant had been increasingly abusive and threatening. Despite Edwina reporting these matters to police, her neighbour’s visitors continued to abuse her and her family every time they went to the car or put rubbish out.

After Edwina complained, we made enquiries with the then Department of Health and Human Services. The Department advised it was offering the neighbouring tenant a transfer to another property due to family violence.

It was accepted that the neighbour couldn’t control her visitors’ behaviour.

The Department told Edwina it would carefully select a new tenant to try and ensure her and the family’s safety.