More than 38,500 Victorian renters lodged disputes through the rental dispute resolution system in the past year, highlighting the growing complexity, uncertainty and conflict within Labor’s rental framework.
The figures, compiled from applications lodged with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) and Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV), come after more than 150 changes to Victoria’s rental laws under Labor.
Shadow Minister for Consumer Affairs Tim McCurdy said the figures demonstrated a rental system becoming increasingly difficult to navigate for both renters and rental providers.
“These figures should be a wake-up call for the Allan Labor Government,” Mr McCurdy said.
“Labor promised a rental system that was fairer and easier to navigate. Instead, Victorians are facing growing complexity, more disputes and a housing market under increasing pressure.
“More than 38,500 disputes in a single year is not a sign of a healthy rental system. It is a sign of a system that is becoming increasingly adversarial and difficult for Victorians to navigate.”
Mr McCurdy said the Allan Government’s relentless stream of regulatory changes had increased uncertainty and compliance costs, contributing to declining investor confidence and reducing the supply of rental housing.
“Every time a rental provider leaves the market, that’s one less home available for a Victorian looking for somewhere to live.
“At a time when housing affordability is already under enormous pressure, the Allan Labor Government continues to make it harder for people to provide rental housing.”
Mr McCurdy said many rental providers were not large-scale investors but ordinary Victorians who owned a single investment property.
“Many rental providers are nurses, teachers, tradies and small business owners who have worked hard to invest in one property and rely on that income to help meet mortgage repayments and support their families.
“When problems arise, they are increasingly being forced into lengthy and complex dispute resolution processes that leave them out of pocket and frustrated.”
Mr McCurdy said the Allan Government’s claim that it had successfully balanced the interests of renters and rental providers was becoming increasingly difficult to comprehend.
“When tens of thousands of Victorians are being forced into formal dispute resolution processes every year, it is clear the system is not working.
“Victoria needs a rental system that protects renters, supports rental providers and encourages investment in new housing supply.
“Only a Liberal and Nationals Government will restore balance to Victoria’s rental system and deliver a fair, functional and sustainable framework that works for everyone.
