As a reminder to all renters and rental providers, Victoria’s rental rules have tightened significantly, with major reforms in effect from 25 November 2025 and further standards applying from 1 December 2025. For rental providers, this reshapes how a property can be marketed, when and how rent can be increased, and how tenancy matters must be managed, with real consequences when obligations are not met.
From 25 November 2025, rental properties must meet the minimum standards before they are advertised, and rental providers and agents must have a reasonable belief that the property complies. In practice, this pushes compliance to the very start of the leasing timeline. If a home is not ready, marketing can be delayed, enquiries can be lost, and vacancy can extend. Consumer Affairs Victoria has signalled active enforcement, and the minimum standards are designed to be renter-visible, not just paperwork kept on file.
Two high-impact safety requirements now sit firmly in the “non-negotiable” category. Secured cords on internal window coverings are mandatory from 1 December 2025, intended to prevent cords from forming dangerous loops. Annual smoke alarm safety checks are also mandatory, making fire safety an ongoing compliance task rather than a once-off installation concern.
Rent increases now require more planning. The minimum notice period increased from 60 to 90 days on 25 November 2025, affecting renewal timing and the cash flow strategy. Rent increases also need to be supported by market evidence and provided with a comparison-style report to renters, so the pricing strategy needs to be data-led and defensible.
Rental bidding controls are also tighter: properties must be advertised at a single fixed price, and from 25 November 2025 it is an offence to accept an offer above the advertised rent, even if the applicant offers it voluntarily.
“No reason” notices to vacate are no longer allowed. From 25 November 2025, a notice to vacate must be issued for a valid reason, including scenarios such as selling, major renovations, or the rental provider moving back in, with correct process and documentation essential.
On the dispute side, Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) launched in June 2025 to help resolve common rental disputes without a full VCAT hearing, supporting faster and less costly resolution when managed correctly.
If you are leasing, renewing, or reviewing your portfolio settings, a practical compliance checklist to action now includes:
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