Thursday, 30 July 2026

 Daniela DE MARTINO (Monbulk) (17:15): (1752) My adjournment matter is for the Minister for Renters, and the action I seek is for the minister to provide an update on measures being taken to help inform renters across Monbulk when they move into a disaster-prone area before they sign on the dotted line. Many constituents across Monbulk and the Dandenong Ranges have told me they were fairly unaware of the high bushfire risk across the area when they first moved there, despite the significant implications this risk has for their safety, insurance costs, evacuation planning and overall wellbeing. I believe that this high risk of bushfires across the hills makes it critically important for people looking to move into the area to have access to clear, accurate and updated information about any disaster risks associated with a property before they sign a lease. Indeed, anyone moving into a bushfire- or flood-prone area should be informed of this before they commit to living somewhere. If you buy a home the section 32 will outline the overlays of areas subject to bushfire or flood, but there is no equivalent disclosure or exits for someone wanting to rent.

My community members have made it clear that they expect transparency when entering into rental agreements, particularly where a property’s location may expose them to an increased risk. Accurate and transparent advice is helpful for those moving in to understand the risks and prepare for them, and that keeps all of our community safe.