Education and training

When:
Day 1: Monday 12 October, 9:30 am – 4 pm
Day 2: Tuesday 13 October, 9:30 am – 4 pm
Day 3: Monday 19 October, 9:30 am– 4 pm

Where: Online

Supporting renters effectively requires a sound understanding of Victoria’s tenancy laws and how they apply to common issues that arise during a tenancy.

This 3-day training gives new Renter Rights Service workers the foundational knowledge they need to provide tenancy information, advice and support to renters.

The training covers the fundamentals of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, including the rights and responsibilities of renters and rental providers. You will learn about common tenancy issues, notices, dispute resolution, and the role of Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). You will also develop practical skills in reading tenancy documents and supporting renters to understand and exercise their rights.

Audience and experience level
Participants must attend all 3 training days to complete the training. Active participation in discussions and learning activities is encouraged throughout the training.

Please note that a minimum number of participants is required for this event to proceed. If we do not reach the required number of participants, you will be given priority placement in the next available induction.

Register: Induction training for Renter Rights Service workers

When: Wednesday 21 October, 2 pm – 3:15 pm
Where: Online

Many renters struggle to keep up with their bills and rent. This session, delivered by Tenants Victoria’s financial counselling team, looks at the help available.

You will learn about grants, services and support for renters with rent arrears or other debts. The session will also cover payment plans, financial statements, and ways to deal with rent increases.

It is designed for new renting support workers.

Register: Financial hardship and renters

When: Thursday 22 October, 1:30–2:30 pm
Where: Online

Private renters often need help from a range of services. Delivered by a Tenants Victoria social worker and a member of our renters’ rights team, this session looks at the support available.

You will learn how to make good referrals and connect renters with the right services. The session also covers key services available across Victoria. It is designed for workers who are new to tenancy and renter support roles

While the session focuses on private renters, it is suitable for workers who support renters across all housing types.

Register: Navigating assistance for private renters

When: Wednesday 28 October, 10 am – 2 pm
Where: Online

Delivered in partnership with Women’s Legal Service Victoria, this training explores the causes and impacts of family violence and how it relates to the Residential Tenancies Act.

Participants will build their knowledge of renters’ rights and develop practical skills to better support renters experiencing family violence. It is designed for tenancy workers and workers with some experience in family violence and tenancy.

Register: Intervention orders and tenancy practice

When: Wednesday 4 November, 10 am – 12 pm
Where: Online

Family violence can affect both housing and child protection matters. This can make it harder for victim-survivors with children to get the support they need.

Delivered in partnership with Women’s Legal Service Victoria, this workshop explains when Child Protection becomes involved and how this can affect tenancy matters. You will learn ways to support adult and child victim-survivors, including referral and advocacy options. The session also covers Pillars 2 and 3 of the Multi-Agency Risk Assessment and Management (MARAM) Framework.

Register: Family violence and child protection intersections

When: Wednesday 2 December, 9:30–11:30 am
Where: Online
Topic: TBC

Tenancy laws can change over time. These changes can affect renters and the people who support them. It is important for workers to stay up to date.

This session covers recent changes to the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 and other key tenancy updates. You will learn about current dispute resolution processes and common issues facing renters. The session will also look at recent Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) decisions and what they mean in practice.

Suitable for new and experienced workers, this session will help you build your knowledge and support renters with confidence.

Register: RTA update for tenancy workers