A RENTING taskforce cracking down on non-compliant landlords holds all parties in the rental industry accountable, according to a Swan Hill real estate property manager.
The renting taskforce was established by the Victorian Government to target common breaches, including false advertising, poor property conditions, and failure to lodge bonds.
The taskforce has powers to inspect properties and issue fines for non-compliance.
Since early 2024, more than 80 fines have been handed down, totalling more than $670,000.
Ray White Swan Hill property manager Hayden Boyd said the taskforce’s presence, should it extend to Swan Hill, would help ensure greater accountability across the rental market.
“It holds all parties in the rental industry accountable for the standard in which they conduct themselves,” he said.
Although the taskforce hasn’t yet carried out inspections in Swan Hill, the acting Minister for Consumer Affairs, Melissa Horne, said renters and rental providers state-wide should stay vigilant.
“We know that most rental providers and real estate agents want to do the right thing, which is why we are working with them to make sure they understand their obligations,” Ms Horne said.
“Victorian renters deserve to live in a home that is safe and secure.
“Our renting taskforce is making sure this is the standard.”
Mr Boyd said the rental market has improved since the latest regulations were introduced, particularly in how repairs and maintenance are handled.
“Rental providers are more willing to proceed immediately with repair works when flagged rather than trying to hold them off compared to a few years ago,” he said.
But, Mr Boyd acknowledged “sourcing appropriate trades can be challenging for certain repair works”.
Mr Boyd said most landlords and agencies aim to do the right thing and recognise the high cost of non-compliance.
“Rental providers are becoming more aware of their legal obligations as time goes on,” he said.
“Given the significant fines to both the rental provider and the agents who manage the property, the importance of meeting minimum standards is a constant conversation.”
To support renters and landlords, the government has introduced Residential Dispute Resolution Victoria.
It’s a free service that helps resolve disputes over repairs, rent, bonds, and compensation, without needing to go through VCAT.
If you’re concerned that a rental property doesn’t meet required standards, you can report it online at consumer.vic.gov.au/renting
