Victoria rental reforms: what changed on 13 October
The Victoria rental reforms that started on 13 October 2026 change how landlords, agents and rooming house operators handle bonds, fees, safety checks and record keeping. Consumer Affairs Victoria says the safety check rule covers properties with new and existing rental agreements.
No proof, no bond claim
Rental providers and agents must now give renters evidence supporting a bond claim before they make it at the end of a rental agreement. Invoices, receipts, quotes and photos are all acceptable evidence.
Fees for applications and rent payments are banned
Rental providers and agents cannot charge renters a fee for a rental application or to make rent payments. This builds on the existing ban on third-party apps charging those fees.
Safety checks every two years
All rental properties must have gas and electrical safety checks every two years, including properties with new and existing rental agreements. A gas safety check must also be completed before any draught-proofing work is carried out. That check is separate from the two-yearly gas safety check.
Records, and what happens if the rules are ignored
Rental providers and rooming house operators must keep records showing their property meets the relevant minimum standards. Anyone who does not comply may face warnings, fines, or court or other enforcement action. Under the Victoria rental reforms, Consumer Affairs Victoria’s permanent Renting Taskforce continues to monitor the rental market and enforce the laws.
The Victoria rental reforms build on changes introduced since November last year and form part of more than 150 rental reforms in Victoria since 2021.
Related: Smart Rental Bonds: NSW says over $5 million in bonds moved in a month
General information only, not legal advice. Check the official source before acting.
Source: Consumer Affairs Victoria. Licence: CC BY 4.0.
