With some of the highest property prices in the world, young people living in Australia’s major cities are struggling to afford skyrocketing rents.

Despite an initial drop when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, rents have risen considerably across the country, increasing 8.3% just this year — the fastest growth since 2008.

Home ownership is not an option for many, especially as median house prices are now close to $1 million. Most young people are unable to save up for a deposit while paying a significant proportion of their income on expensive rents.