Two of Australia’s largest property platforms have banned landlords and agents from posting Victorian listings without a “clear advertised price”.
The move is aimed at ensuring compliance with the state’s rental bidding laws, which ban listings with a price range or phrases such as “contact agent”.
Realestate.com.au and Domain say they have now upgraded their systems so illegal listings “cannot be advertised in the first place.”
Rental law
The move comes as part of a suite of changes to rental law in the state, including outlawing rent bidding — an agent asking for or accepting offers higher than the advertised price.
Victoria made it illegal for landlords or agents to solicit rental bids in 2021.
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From 25 November, it will be illegal to accept unsolicited bids.
Landlords and real estate agents who break the law face up to $12,200 in fines.
The incoming law also extends the minimum notice period for rent increases and evictions from 60 to 90 days, bans no-fault evictions, and bans landlords from charging tenants extra fees for rent payment processing.
Consumer Affairs Minister Nick Staikos said “price transparency is vital,” because it is already “hard enough trying to find a new home”.
Spokespeople for Domain and Realestate.com.au said the changes would improve the process of looking for a rental on real estate platforms.
