Measures boost renter protections
Media release: Stronger safeguards make tenancy system fairer for renters
30 October 2024
Tenants Victoria, the peak body for Victorian renters, says the Victorian Government’s reforms announced today, which include extending the ban on no-reason evictions and capping lease-break fees, are welcome measures to improve renter protections.
CEO Jennifer Beveridge said the reforms were particularly welcome in the midst of the renting crisis.
‘We know from the people who contact our services for help daily that many are doing it tough in an extremely tight market for rentals. These latest reforms are a welcome step towards Tenants Victoria’s vision for safe, secure, and affordable homes for Victorian renters in a fair housing system.’ Ms Beveridge said.
She was responding to the announcement by Consumer Affairs Minister Gabrielle Williams about measures that also include a cap on lease-break charges, a ban on fees for the payment of rent and for checks of tenancy databases, and requiring rental providers to provide evidence if they make a claim for a renter’s bond, with penalties for spurious claims.
Ms Beveridge said: ‘The measures contribute to better regulation to protect those of us who rent our home – an essential service for us all – in such a tight market for rented accommodation.
‘Today’s announcement included extension of the ban on no-reason evictions. The major reforms to Victorian rental laws in 2021 included bans on most such evictions, which boosted security for renters.
‘Extending the ban to include the end of the initial fixed-term agreement in a rental boosts this security. Renters are better able to assert their rights, such as asking for repairs, without the anxiety of being evicted for no clear grounds.
‘Together these reforms are a step forward in renters’ rights, offering more protection in the current tight rental market.
‘With community partners we look forward to working in a consultation process with the government on the detail and implementation of these important additions to Victoria’s protections for renters.’
See the Victorian Government’s full announcement below.