We welcome Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria
Media release: Tenants Victoria will work closely with the Government and RDRV to ensure fairer outcomes for renters
28 October 2024
The peak body for Victorian renters, Tenants Victoria, has welcomed the Victorian Government’s announcement to establish Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) to improve the system for renters, landlords and real estate agents seeking to resolve issues in rental properties.
This follows the announcement on Saturday by Consumer Affairs Minister Gabrielle Williams of the new system that will be available to the 2 million Victorians who rent their homes. RDRV will be administered by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) as an entity specialising in rental matters.
Tenants Victoria has long advocated for a fairer, faster and less formal dispute resolution system for most rental disputes. Establishing RDRV is an important step forward for Victoria’s rental system.
Tenants Victoria CEO Jennifer Beveridge congratulated Minister Gabrielle Williams on reforming a rental dispute system that is no longer fit for purpose.
‘All stakeholders recognise that the current system is characterised by long waits, unnecessary conflict and dissatisfaction on all sides. A strong housing system for Victorians relies on resolving rental disputes quickly and fairly when they arise.
‘Many renters choose not to pursue matters because the current system is daunting, time-consuming and doesn’t provide a timely outcome. This leads to unfair outcomes, including avoidable evictions and financial costs.
‘Renting is a major part of Victoria’s long-term housing system. A body like RDRV will be better able to respond to the increasing quantity and changing nature of rental disputes as the number of renters continues to grow.’
‘We have not yet seen the details about how RDRV will operate, and we look forward to being part of a robust consultation process to ensure the new system is fair, fast and affordable for all parties.
‘Tenants Victoria will work closely with the Victorian Government and RDRV to ensure today’s announcement translates into fairer outcomes for renters.’
See the government announcement below for more details.