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Canberra landlord has expressed outrage after being asked to donate $120 to buy a Christmas hamper for their tenants by real estate agency Distinct Property Management. The homeowner, who wished to remain anonymous, received an email with two options: a $99 package including a candle and snacks or a $119 option featuring sparkling wine and high-end chocolates. Both could be deducted from the rental ledger.

    The landlord was shocked by the request, citing the cost-of-living crisis and their own financial struggles. They had to buy a property interstate due to unaffordable prices in major cities and are still making sacrifices to stay afloat with interest rates at a 12-year high. "It's taken me years to save up for a property," they said. "Now they want me to give them $120? That's a lot to gift to a stranger in this economy."

    The landlord labelled the real estate agency "out-of-touch" and questioned why they would expect someone else to foot the bill for charity. They pointed out that interest rates remain high, with economists predicting no cut until at least 2025, making it difficult for homeowners to afford extra expenses.