Victorian renters will have stronger rights and greater security, with changes to the state’s rental laws taking effect.
The reforms, which started Tuesday 25 November 2025, are:
- a ban on rental bidding. It's illegal for agents to accept higher amounts of rent than what is advertised
- all rental properties must meet the minimum standards before they are advertised or offered to let. If they don't, it's an offence
- smoke alarms must be correctly installed and tested every 12 months in all rental properties
- no-fault evictions are banned, so rental providers must have a valid reason to ask a renter to move out. Even at the end of a fixed-term rental agreement
- notice periods for rent increases and certain notices to vacate have lengthened from 60 days to 90 days. This applies to all rental properties, rooming houses, caravan parks and residential parks
- new rules for real estate agents to protect the information renters provide in their applications.
From 1 December 2025, important new minimum standards apply. All blind and curtain cords in residential rental properties must be anchored, so that the cords are held tight and can’t form loose loops. And rooming house operators must install a fixed heater in each resident's room.
From 31 March 2026, giving rental providers time to adjust and comply:
- a new standard rental application form will make it quicker and easier for renters to apply for a property. Rental providers and agents won’t be able to ask applicants to give other information that’s not in the form
- businesses will be banned from charging fees for rental applications and rent payments
- the Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria and VCAT will have more matters to consider when considering whether a proposed rent increase is excessive.
For more information, read the full list and detail of the changes.