25th Nov 2025
The Allan Labor Government’s landmark rental protection laws have taken effect – making renting safer and fairer for the hundreds of thousands of Victorians.
The new laws which came into effect today increase renter protections and cement Victoria as the best state in the nation for renters’ rights.
From today, the following key reforms are in effect:
Rental bidding is banned, making it illegal for agents to accept higher amounts than what is advertised
All rental properties must now meet the minimum standards before they are advertised or when an offer to let is made
Smoke alarms must be correctly installed and must be tested every 12 months in all rental properties
No-fault evictions are banned – meaning no Victorian renter can be kicked out of their home for no reason
Notice periods for rental increases and certain notices to vacate have increased from 60 days to 90 days – giving people more time to find a new home if they receive a notice to vacate.
Real estate agents will need to ensure they protect information renters provide in their applications, adhering to requirements around the use, destruction, de-identification and disclosure of information.
Victoria is leading the nation on renters’ rights, and there are further reforms on the way.
Next year, a new standard rental application form to be used by rental providers, will make it quicker and easier for renters to apply for a property.
Businesses will also be banned from charging renters’ fees for rental applications and rent payments and the new Portable Bonds Rental Scheme will go live next year – getting rid of the unnecessary cost of a double bond.
The Labor Government is delivering 150 rental reforms – making Victoria the best state in the nation to rent.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos
“Victoria leads the nation on renters rights – delivering more than 150 reforms to making renting fairer and safer.”
“More Victorians are renting than ever before and these changes will give renters greater security and stability.”
“We know there’s more to do and we have even more reforms next year including portable bonds which will mean renters won’t be stuck paying two bonds at once.”
Quotes attributable to Parliamentary Secretary for Renters Kat Theophanous
“Renters deserve the dignity of a safe, secure home - and these reforms deliver exactly that. By ending no-fault evictions, banning rental bidding and requiring homes to be up to standard before they even hit the market, the Allan Labor Government is putting fairness and stability back at the centre of renting in Victoria.”
