The Victorian State Government in introducing reforms designed to improve transparency, stability and fairness across the rental market. While these changes are intended to give renters more security, they also bring new obligations for residential rental providers.
At The Coast, our role is to ensure our clients are well informed and fully prepared. Below is an overview of the changes you should be aware of from November.
Rental properties must be listed at a single, set price. Price ranges, rental bidding, and offers above the advertised rent will no longer be allowed. This reform ensures a fair and transparent market for all applicants.
The minimum notice for rent increases and notices to vacate will increase from 60 to 90 days. This provides renters with additional time to adjust and plan.
Residential rental providers will no longer be able to terminate fixed term agreements without a valid reason. Evictions must be supported by grounds such as non-payment of rent, damage, or the rental provider requiring the property for their own use.
A new, standardised rental application process will be introduced. Alongside this, rental providers must take greater care in how they collect, handle, and store renters’ personal information.
Previously, a property only needed to meet the state’s minimum standards by the time a renter moved in. From November, compliance will be required before a property can even be advertised. This will ensure that all homes entering the rental market meet basic safety and liveability requirements from day one.
These reforms are only the first stage of a broader program. Additional changes are scheduled for 2026 and 2027, including:
Portable rental bonds to allow renters to transfer a bond from one property to another
Mandatory professional development and licensing requirements for property managers and agents
Stronger oversight of rent increases and new limits on unreasonable rent rises
Together, these reforms will reshape how the residential rental sector operates in Victoria.
For property owners, the reforms create both responsibilities and opportunities. A more transparent system reduces disputes and can support longer, more stable tenancies. However, it also means compliance will be closely monitored, and processes that once felt routine will now require more attention.
At The Coast, we are reviewing every property we manage against the new standards and ensuring our processes are updated in line with the November reforms. We will continue to keep our clients informed as further legislation and compliance requirements are introduced over the coming years.
We welcome clarity and professionalism in the rental sector. These reforms set a higher standard for how properties are managed, and that is a positive step for everyone. Our commitment is to guide our clients through these changes so they can remain compliant while continuing to achieve strong rental outcomes.
Egidio Poci, Managing Director at The Coast
As your property partner, we are here to guide you through every step of these reforms. We will provide regular updates, compliance checks, and practical advice to ensure your property remains competitive, compliant, and ready for the future of Victoria’s rental market.
If you have any questions about what these changes mean for your property, please contact our team for tailored advice.