The Victorian Government has introduced a bill to let renters transfer their existing bond directly to a new property.
The Government said the bill is aimed at ensuring renters aren’t “stuck paying two bonds at once”.
If passed, the bill would also require more documentation from landlords filing bond claims.
Bill
Under the proposed bill, renters would be able to apply online to transfer their existing bond to a new property.
The Government would guarantee the bond amount held by the previous rental provider the claim is processed.
If a landlord successfully lodged a claim, the tenant would then be required to re-pay the Government.
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The new law would also require landlords to provide tenants with “documentary evidence” at least three days before lodging a bond claim.
Landlords would also be banned from charging tenants “extra fees” when paying rent, including through property management apps.
The bill also requires landlords to maintain records showing they are meeting minimum standards.
Comments
Premier Jacinta Allan said the bill is about “giving renters one less thing to worry about”.
Shadow Consumer Affairs Minister Tim McCurdy told TDA that while he hasn’t seen a draft of the bill, the Opposition is inclined to support legislation that “assists renters during the cost-of-living crisis”.
The Greens expressed support for the bill, saying the “no-brainer” reform would help address the “power imbalance between landlords and renters”.
