Victorian Rental Law Reforms – What You Need to Know
Significant changes to Victoria’s rental laws are being introduced from November 2025, with a further series of minimum standard upgrades rolling out from March 2027. These reforms aim to strengthen renter protections and improve the quality, 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 already working with a property manager or managing your investment independently, it’s important to stay informed and prepared.
Key Changes from November 2025
- Ending a lease: Rental providers will no longer be able to end a fixed-term agreement without a valid reason.
- Rent increases: Now require 90 days’ notice (up from 60) and must be supported by evidence such as a rental appraisal or market data.
- Notices to vacate: For reasons including sale, renovation or owner occupancy, 90 days’ notice will now be required, along with additional supporting documentation like statutory declarations or building permits.
- Minimum Standards: Must be fully met before a property is advertised for lease, including compliance with current safety, amenity and functionality benchmarks.
Sustainability Standards – Phased Introduction from 2027
To support Victoria’s emissions reduction targets, a staged rollout of energy efficiency upgrades will take effect from 1 March 2027.
From 1 March 2027:
Heating and hot water systems must be upgraded to energy-efficient electric options when they reach end of life.
Energy-efficient fixed cooling will be required in the main living area at the start of a lease or switch to periodic.
Where no ceiling insulation is present, R5.0 insulation must be installed.
All shower heads must meet a 4-star water rating.
From 1 July 2027:
Draughtproofing of external doors, windows and wall vents will be mandatory at lease commencement or transition to a periodic agreement.
From 1 July 2030:
Fixed cooling must be in place in the main living area for all rental agreement types, regardless of lease start date.
We're Here to Support You
If you have any questions or would like to discuss what these changes mean for your property, please contact your rental agent directly.
