We call on all parties to commit to existing renter protections

9 October 2026

Tenants Victoria is calling on all political parties to lock in renters rights ahead of the state election as new data reveals Melbourne average rents have hit $600 a week.

New REA quarterly rent data out today reveals Melbourne rents, which were the lowest in the country, now match rents in Hobart with combined unit and house rents hitting $600, while the state’s rental vacancy rate remains trapped at a critically low 1.9 per cent.

The state’s peak advocacy body for renters, Tenants Victoria, warns that record prices combined with a shortage of available homes are forcing tenants to absorb escalating costs while living in constant stress they could be kicked out of their home or be hit with a rent rise.

‘Low vacancy rates make moving risky for renters. Whether you’re facing eviction, changing suburbs, or looking for a home that better suits your needs, there’s no guarantee you’ll find another place in time,’ CEO of Tenants Victoria Jennifer Beveridge said.

‘When the rental market is this tight, renters rely on the protections in the law. We’re calling on all political parties to commit to protecting renters’ rights in the next term of Parliament.

‘We hear from people every day who are too scared to ask for repairs or challenge an excessive rent increase because they’re worried they will get a rent increase that’s too high, and be unable to secure a new home.

‘For the one-third of renters in Victoria the rental squeeze isn’t letting up, and a market as tough as this means the rights that renters do have are even more important. 

‘Victoria has some of the strongest protections for renters in the country and we must ensure they aren’t wound back.

‘Housing is an essential service that more people are looking at as a long-term housing solution, so we need to ensure that every Victorian renter feels safe in their home.’

Media inquiries: matt@hortonadvisory.com.au