The NSW Government has introduced a bill to allow victim-survivors of domestic violence (DV) to break leases without penalties.
The bill, introduced in Parliament on Tuesday, would allow victim-survivors to leave shared leases without notifying perpetrators, and to change locks without their landlord’s approval.
The Opposition told TDA it will “look closely” at the details of the bill before deciding on a position.
The proposed bill
Under the proposed law, victim-survivors would no longer be required to inform an alleged perpetrator if they remove themselves from a shared lease.
Penalties for breaking leases would also be waived for tenants who declare they are experiencing domestic violence.
Victim-survivors would also be able to change their locks without landlord approval if an alleged perpetrator is legally barred from accessing the property.
The bill would require agents to get tenants’ permission for images on rental listings that include identifying images of their belongings.
The NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal, which resolves disputes between landlords and tenants, would be able to split up rental bonds and order payments to co-tenants affected by violence.
It would also be able to ensure victim-survivors are not held liable for property damage caused by a perpetrator.
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Domestic Violence Prevention Minister Jodie Harrison said: “These changes make it easier for victim survivors to leave their rental home quickly and reduce risk of further financial harm.”
Shadow Domestic Violence Prevention Minister Natasha Maclaren-Jones said the Coalition hadn’t reviewed the bill yet, but was in favour of “giving people simple and practical ways to leave unsafe situations and stay safe”.
The NSW Tenants’ Union welcomed the proposal, saying it would prioritise victims “escaping violence and abuse and its impacts.”
1800 RESPECT
Call: 1800 737 732
Text: 0458 737 732
Video: 1800RESPECT.org.au
