The changes, welcomed by Tenants Victoria, align with national efforts to provide greater security for renters, who now make up almost 30% of the state’s population.
Tenants Victoria CEO Jennifer Beveridge said the reforms build on 2021 rental law changes and bring Victoria in line with New South Wales’ protections against arbitrary evictions.
“The removal of the remaining ‘no-reason’ evictions means renters are better able to assert their rights, such as asking for repairs, without the anxiety of being evicted for no clear grounds,” she said.
The legislation, Consumer and Planning Legislation Amendment (Housing Statement Reform) Bill 2024, also introduces Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV), a new entity aimed at providing faster, fairer dispute resolution between renters and landlords.
Ms Beveridge said many renters avoid pursuing disputes due to concerns about conflict with landlords or navigating Victoria’s Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT).
“We hope that the RDRV will resolve disputes quickly and fairly as the number of renters in the state continues to grow,” she added.
Other key reforms include:
- Banning landlords and agents from accepting unsolicited offers of increased rent
- Extending notice periods for rent increases and many evictions from 60 to 90 days
- Mandatory annual smoke alarm checks
- Stronger data protection rules requiring rental applicant information to be destroyed or de-identified within specific timeframes
- Improved licensing, registration, and education requirements for real estate professionals
Ms Beveridge said these changes are particularly important in the current tight rental market.
“We look forward, with community partners, to working with the government on the implementation of these important safeguards for Victorian renters,” she said.
