Victoria Imposes Hefty Fines on Landlords for Third-Party App Fees
Landlords and property managers in Victoria now face substantial financial penalties if they charge renters fees through third-party applications. Under newly enacted legislation, individuals can be fined up to $2,400, while businesses may incur fines as high as $12,000 for such violations. These stringent measures are part of a broader overhaul of rental regulations aimed at enhancing tenant protections across the state.
Comprehensive Rental Reforms Take Effect
The new laws, which will officially commence on March 31, introduce a suite of protections designed to safeguard renters during the ongoing cost-of-living crisis. A key provision prohibits landlords and real estate agents from utilizing any third-party apps that impose additional charges on tenants for rental applications or payments. This ban is expected to fundamentally alter how landlords identify and secure prospective tenants, promoting greater fairness in the rental market.
Furthermore, the legislation mandates the adoption of a standardised form for all rental applications, ensuring consistency and transparency. It also strictly regulates the type of information that can be requested from potential tenants, preventing intrusive or unnecessary inquiries. Another significant aspect is the establishment of clear guidelines defining excessive rent increases, coupled with requirements for landlords to provide adequate notice before implementing such hikes.
Enhanced Protections and Industry Impact
Victoria's Consumer Affairs Minister, Nick Staikos, emphasised that these reforms will significantly benefit renters, making it easier for them to find and maintain homes. "More and more Victorians are renting, and only Labor is looking out for them—with new laws to protect their rights," Staikos stated. "These new laws will protect Victorians from unfair and excessive charges during the current cost-of-living crisis."
The recent changes build upon earlier regulations, such as the requirement for landlords to offer at least one fee-free payment method and the mandate for a 90-day notice period before rent increases, which was introduced in November. Additionally, rental bidding—where tenants compete by offering higher payments—has been banned, and no-fault evictions are now prohibited. Minimum standards for rental properties were also enforced in late 2025, further bolstering tenant security.
Historic Shift for Victoria's Renters
Jennifer Beveridge, CEO of Tenants Victoria, hailed these reforms as the most comprehensive in the state's history. "This marks a major shift for Victoria's almost two million renters," she said. "These reforms recognise that renters deserve security and stability in their homes." The collective measures are poised to set a new benchmark for landlord and agent conduct, ensuring that rental practices align with principles of equity and consumer protection.
As Victoria continues to refine its rental landscape, these laws underscore a commitment to addressing the challenges faced by tenants, particularly in a competitive housing market. With enforcement beginning in late March, stakeholders across the real estate sector must adapt swiftly to avoid penalties and contribute to a more just rental environment.
