Issues with your landlord
Learn about the steps you can take if you have a dispute with your landlord (rental provider). We cover what to do if they don’t follow their duties under the law, going to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), and how to make a complaint.
Claiming compensation
If your landlord (rental provider) doesn’t follow the rental laws or the terms of your rental agreement (lease), you may be able to get compensation.
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Disputing bond and compensation claims
If your landlord (rental provider) wants any of your bond, or compensation, for things like damage or cleaning, and you disagree, they can make a claim to VCAT. You can go to the VCAT hearing and dispute their claim.
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Landlord (rental provider) breaches and other notices
If your landlord breaches (doesn’t follow) their duties under Victoria’s rental laws, there are steps you can take to get them to fix the problem and/or pay you compensation.
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Renter breaches
Both you and the landlord (rental provider) have duties under Victoria’s rental laws that need to be followed. If the landlord thinks you have breached (not followed) your duties, there are rules about how they let you know.
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Dealing with VCAT
The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) hears disputes between renters and landlords (rental providers). It is not a court, but it can make decisions that must be followed.
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Applying to VCAT
Find out how to make an application to VCAT and see examples of common applications from renters.
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Mediation referrals by VCAT
VCAT may refer some applications, especially bond, compensation and pet applications, to the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria. It provides free mediation to help people involved in certain disputes try to reach an agreement without going to a VCAT hearing.
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Claims for VCAT fees and costs
Applications to VCAT are free when you want to get your bond back.
Find out the difference between fees and costs, and what you need to pay when your case goes to VCAT.
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Complaints about rental providers and agents
You can make an official complaint about the landlord (rental provider) or agent if you think what they are doing is illegal or unprofessional. Find out where and how to make your complaint.
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Restraining orders
If the landlord (rental provider) tries to enter your home unlawfully or illegally evict you, you can apply for a restraining order to stop them.
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Disputes involving interstate residents
VCAT hears rental disputes in Victoria, but not if any of the people involved live interstate. The Magistrates Court of Victoria deals with such cases.
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Consumer Affairs Victoria guidelines
Consumer Affairs Victoria has guidelines to make it easier for renters and landlords (rental providers) to follow their duties under Victoria’s rental laws. These include definitions and examples for things like cleanliness, damage and fair wear and tear.
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