Citizenship Rights and Housing Tenure

This book analyses understandings of citizenship in the context of different housing tenures in Australia. The research combines the theoretical work of Marshall and Mannheim to address variations and tensions in modern citizenship. Variations in the understanding and practice of citizenship among homeowners, homebuyers, private renters and social housing tenants are examined using both quantitative and qualitative research methods. The book highlights the relationship between citizens in different housing tenures to several key aspects of modern citizenship: membership, participation and security in their local community. The opportunities for citizens to actively participate, achieve a sense of membership and feeling of security within their local community are examined. The research contrasts the different understandings and experience of financially independent homeowners and homebuyers with citizens in both public and private rental housing. The analysis identifies tensions and ideals around the notions of a 'good citizen' and civic virtue. The value of the Australian 'dream' of home ownership is also examined.

Autorentext

Jed has a PhD in Sociology and is an Honorary Research Associate at the University of Tasmania. He has researched and published articles on citizenship, housing and national identity. He manages housing, homeless and community aged care programs for a large non-government organization in Tasmania.