The new measures include banning no fault evictions, extending notice times for rent hikes and more.
In a massive win for the renting population, Victoria’s Parliament has given the green light to a hefty package of rental reforms, cementing the state’s reputation as the ultimate champion of renters’ rights nationwide.
The Consumer and Planning Legislation Amendment (Housing Statement Reform) Bill 2024 passed this week, delivering a knockout blow to dodgy rental practices that have plagued Melbourne’s housing scene. The reforms add to an already impressive 130 measures introduced since 2021.
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Among the game-changing updates, the Allan Labor Government has officially killed rental bidding in all its forms – meaning renters will finally cop fair pricing instead of being forced into financial Hunger Games scenarios. Victorians facing rent hikes or eviction notices will now get 90 days to sort their situation (up from the previous 60).
Perhaps most significantly, the legislation bans no fault evictions, meaning landlords can no longer boot tenants without valid reason – a practice that has left countless renters suddenly scrambling for new digs.
The application process is also getting a much-needed overhaul with a standardised form, and real estate agents will have to actually follow privacy laws when handling your personal info (revolutionary concept, we know). The days of being slugged with fees from tech platforms just to apply for a place or pay your rent are officially over.
In a move that should strike fear into the hearts of dodgy real estate agents, property managers, owners, corporations and conveyancers will now need proper registration and ongoing professional development. Those who break the rules face penalties up to a whopping $47,422 – particularly targeting the age-old underquoting scam and misleading claims during sales.
Safety gets a boost too, with annual smoke alarm checks becoming mandatory, and rental properties must meet minimum standards at advertising stage – not just when you get the keys.
The reforms kick off this November, with additional measures set to drop later in the year.
“Victoria has the strongest rental protections in the country and this builds on our significant work to make renting fairer across the state,” says Consumer Affairs Minister Nick Staikos.
“We’re banning fees for rental applications or payments, lengthening the notice period for rental increases and notices to vacate, and banning all types of rental bidding – because it’s only fair that renters are treated with respect.”
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