An Adelaide grandmother who endured months of mysterious noises from her ceiling has made a shocking discovery that has triggered an urgent government investigation. The pensioner found that someone had been secretly living inside the roof of her Housing Trust home.
Government Response
South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas described the situation as "startling," and the Housing Minister confirmed that the Trust is now working to address the failures exposed by the incident.
The Discovery
The grandmother, who lives alone, told 7NEWS she had repeatedly reported concerns about noises in her roof space over several months. Her fears were dismissed until police found evidence confirming her worst fears. "There's been someone up there this whole time getting up and down in my home when I've been asleep," she said. The squatter had left behind a bed, tins of food, crockery, cutlery, shoes, and drugs.
Premier Malinauskas stated he immediately sought answers upon learning of the case, calling it "pretty startling." Police are continuing their investigation, and no arrests have been made.
Support and Relocation
Housing Minister Nick Champion said the matter is being treated seriously and the tenant is receiving support. "Obviously we're treating it seriously and working with the tenant. We've secured the roof. The Housing Trust has visited the property and as you would expect the police are involved as well," he told 7NEWS.
The grandmother has expressed a desire to leave the property, stating she no longer feels safe. The Housing Minister confirmed a transfer request was already in place before the incident but warned that finding a suitable alternative home could take time.
