Victorian Rental Reforms

What this means for Renters and Rental Providers

Victorian Rental Law Reforms – What You Need to Know

Significant changes to Victoria’s rental laws will take effect starting November 2025, with additional minimum standard upgrades rolling out from March 2027. These reforms are aimed at strengthening renter protections and improving the quality, energy efficiency, and sustainability of rental homes across the state.

Navigating legislative change can be complex, particularly when it comes to understanding your obligations as a rental provider. Whether you’re a rental provider or a renter, staying informed is key. Our team is here to guide you through these changes, helping rental providers meet their obligations and renters understand their rights and responsibilities for a smoother, more transparent rental experience for everyone.

Key Rental Reforms Summary

Now in effect as of Jun 2025

Residential Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV)
All disputes relating to bonds, compensation, rent increases, and repairs must now be managed through Residential Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) before they can be escalated to VCAT.
RDRV is a free and efficient service that helps rental providers and renters resolve issues through early intervention and mutual agreement, aiming to avoid the need for a formal hearing.

Effective 1 November 2025

Compliance with Minimum Standards Before Advertising
Before a property can be advertised for rent, it must meet minimum standards. This ensures that rental properties are safe and habitable from the outset.
Prohibition of Rental Bidding
Rental providers and real estate agents are not allowed to encourage or accept rental bids, meaning they cannot request or accept offers above the advertised rent.
All rental properties must be listed with a fixed price—price ranges or bidding invitations are not permitted, providing a fair and transparent rental process for everyone.
Ban on 'No Reason/no-fault' Evictions
Rental providers will no longer be able to end a lease at the end of a fixed-term without providing a valid reason. These include the owner or their family moving into the property, planned demolition or major renovations, or selling the property with vacant possession.
Extension of Notice Periods
The required notice period for rent increases and vacate notices will increase from 60 to 90 days, providing tenants with more time to adjust to changes.
Right to challenge excessive rent increases
Renters will be able to apply to VCAT to challenge excessive rent increases based on the amount and frequency of increase.
Mandatory Annual Smoke Alarm Checks
Rental Providers are required to conduct annual smoke alarm safety checks, irrespective of when the rental agreement was established (previously the mandatory checks were only for rental agreements entered into after 2021).
Limit on Rent in Advance
Residential rental providers are not allowed to accept unsolicited or uninvited offers to pay rent more than one month in advance under a rental agreement.
Prescribed Rental Application Forms
A new standard application form for renters will be introduced to simplify the application process for both renters and real estate agents.
Data protection on Renter information
Destruction and de-identification of Renter’s information
The Rental Provider or Agent must destroy or permanently de-identify the Renter’s information within:
a) 3 years after the residential rental agreement of the renter is terminated
b) 30 days after being unsuccessful in the application of a property
c) 6 months if the applicant has provided consent to use this information for other rental properties.

Effective 1 Dec 2025

Mandatory Blind & Curtain Cord Standards
All corded internal window coverings in residential rental properties must have an anchor installed to ensure the cords are secured or tensioned and can’t form a loose loop.
New Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards – Phased Introduction from 2027
Starting 1 March 2027, Victoria will begin a phased rollout of upgraded energy efficiency standards to help meet the state’s emissions reduction goals. These new standards aim to improve home comfort, reduce energy bills for renters, and lower overall emissions.

Effective from 1 March 2027

Ceiling Insulation: Rental Providers must install ceiling insulation in the property where there are areas without insulation and meet minimum insulation requirements.
Cooling Standards
Rental providers must install energy-efficient cooling in the main living area at the start of a new or month-to-month rental agreement. This includes a minimum of a 3-star fixed cooling appliance or a 2-star equivalent central cooler. Existing non-energy-efficient cooling systems must be upgraded when they reach the end of their lifespan.
From 1 July 2030, all rental properties must meet these cooling standards, regardless of when the rental agreement began, unless an exemption applies.
Heating and Hot Water
Outdated heating and hot water systems must be replaced with energy-efficient electric alternatives when they reach the end of their lifespan.
Showerheads: Showerheads must meet a minimum 4-star water efficiency rating.