In short:
Victoria’s Renting Taskforce is becoming permanent, with more inspectors and lawyers monitoring compliance with rental laws. Renters will also gain expanded access to advice and advocacy from early 2027.
Compliance Body Here To Stay
Victorian renters will have greater access to support and enforcement, while landlords and real estate agents will face permanent monitoring of rental law compliance under a major expansion of Consumer Affairs Victoria’s rental services.
The state’s Renting Taskforce was originally established as a two-year operation but, from 6 September, becomes a permanent part of Consumer Affairs Victoria with additional inspectors and lawyers.
For renters, the move means greater ongoing enforcement of laws covering issues including minimum property standards, bond lodgement and false or misleading advertising.
For landlords and real estate agents, the permanent taskforce means continued compliance monitoring as new rental laws take effect, with Consumer Affairs Victoria also tasked with helping the sector understand its obligations.
Since 2024, Consumer Affairs Victoria says the taskforce has assessed more than 2,600 rental property cases and inspected more than 600 properties for compliance with minimum standards.
More Changes On The Horizon
It has also issued more than 250 official warnings and 130 infringements totalling more than $900,000, while taking several serious matters to court and the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
Further changes are coming from early 2027 through the new Victorian Renter Rights Program.
Once fully rolled out, the program is expected to provide advice, advocacy and other assistance to more than 25,000 renters each year — more than double the number currently supported.
Consumer Affairs Victoria Director Nicole Rich said the changes would strengthen support and enforcement across the rental market.
“Renters should understand their rights, get help when they need it and have confidence that Victoria’s rental laws are being followed,” Ms Rich said.
