In the midst of a housing affordability crisis, some Logan parents are welcoming their adult children back into the family home.
A recent Compare the Market survey revealed adult kids living back at home pay an average of $153.39 in board.
But Logan resident Elle Roberts said the reality can be far steeper.
“I live on my father’s land in the main house with my husband and one month old,” Ms Roberts said.
“Dad lives in the studio and we pay $400/week plus water and electricity.
“We also buy and prepare our own food, do our laundry and maintain the house – so $153 looks pretty good right now.”
Australian rental figures show only 16% of properties listed are rented for less than $400 per week.
Local Alec Griffith said adult kids needed to “pay their way”.
“It’s a difficult call as so many different situations can alter your benevolence,” Mr Griffith said.
“It depends on how much they earn.
“They are family, but they need to pay their way, otherwise they will find a way to spend it.”
Logan mum Kimmie Lawson has three people over 18-years-old living in her home.
“The biggest thing they consume is power and water,” Ms Lawson said.
“The power and water costs alone, plus increases in food and everything else, are taking their toll.”
Some Logan parents let their adult children live at home free of charge, while others charge a competitive $150 a week.
Compare the Market spokesperson, Chris Forde, said the pandemic was a major contributor for adults moving back in with their parents.
“Young adults look forward to moving out of home to establish financial independence and show their parents they can build a life and career on their own,” Mr Ford said.
“But factors like the pandemic and the rising cost of fuel, gas, electricity and groceries have made it nearly impossible for young adults to save money.”
“The median cost to rent a unit in Australia is $540 a week, so $150 could be a happy medium for the adult child as well as Mum and Dad,” Mr Ford said.
