Victorian Rental Reforms 2025 - What Has Changed

Recent rental reforms have taken place in Victoria that you should be aware of. If you are a landlord, it will be important moving forward that everything remains compliant. While it can feel like an inconvenience at times, the goal with these reforms is to make the rental market more accessible, fair, and streamlined in the years ahead. Some reforms will come into effect later this year, while others are already being enforced.

If you are not up to date, no need to worry. The team at Established Property has been monitoring things closely. If you are a property owner or tenant, we’ve got you covered with a handy summary. Read on as we highlight some of the key ways this will affect the rental market in Victoria.

How Have the Rental Reforms Affected Rental Providers?

For rental providers, the changes mainly affect the standards that are required when listing a property.  You likely are already aware of things like smoke alarms needing a yearly test. However, now other parts of the home have been affected. Blinds and curtains, insulation, heating and cooling, and water efficiency must all now pass a certain threshold. This should make housing more attractive for potential tenants while also protecting your investment. 

There are also some changes on the way in regards to rental forms. Rather than having multiple options, things will soon be standardised. It should help make things clearer and understandable for all involved.

How Have the Rental Reforms Affected Tenants?

The changes for potential tenants will have an impact on multiple aspects of the rental process. For starters, when applying for a home, you can no longer legally be asked to provide more than one month of rent upfront. Properties must also be rented at the listed price, no more rental bidding. This should help make things fair and accessible.

If you are currently renting, there have also been some changes in regards to tenancy and evictions. The idea of no-fault evictions is now a thing of the past. Rental providers must always provide a valid explanation if you are asked to leave. Certain rental disputes must now go through the RDRV before heading to a tribunal. This service is free and fast and should help resolve matters without escalation.

How to Get Help With the Rental Reforms

Whether you are a rental provider or tenant, these reforms will have an impact on how you manage things moving forward. There are a few more changes that we didn’t have time to cover in the article. A good property manager should already be on top of things and be able to assist with any questions you may have.

If you need assistance with the reforms, or are looking to list or rent soon, the team at Established Property is here to help. As one of the leading property management teams in Victoria, we are here to assist with guidance and all your rental needs.