Ministers statements: rental reform
Nick STAIKOS (Bentleigh – Minister for Consumer Affairs, Minister for Local Government) (14:27): The Allan Labor government firmly believe that every Victorian deserves a decent standard of living, and we as a government have done more to ease the cost of renting than any other government in history. Around 30 per cent of Victorians are renters, and they deserve the dignity of living in a secure, affordable home. We have addressed the cost of renting at every step. We have banned all types of rental bidding, because no renter should be caught in a private bidding war to secure a home. Once in their home, renters cannot be subject to arbitrary rent increases. We have extended the notice period for rent increases to 90 days to give renters the certainty to plan for the future. We know that from time to time renters encounter financial difficulties. That is why this year we have provided $15 million for financial counselling services to support renters struggling with the cost of living. As a result of our reform agenda, Melbourne remains the most affordable state capital city in Australia in which to rent. We also understand that disputes arise, and that is why we are about to open Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria. RDRV will provide free, fast and fair dispute resolution for renters and rental providers, resolving disputes in weeks, not months. Next year our portable rental bond scheme will save the average renter around $2500 in additional expenses when moving to a new home. In the four years that those opposite were in government they had no policies to address the cost of renting, and they have no policies now. Unlike those opposite, we want everyone to live in dignity in a home that is secure and one they can afford.