Victorian Rental Law Changes Every Landlord Needs to Know
Victoria is about to see one of the biggest shifts to rental rules in years. From 25 November 2025, new reforms begin rolling out with the aim of creating more certainty for both renters and rental providers. For landlords, this is the moment to stay informed so you can stay compliant and protect your investment with confidence.
No more no-fault evictions
From late November, you can no longer ask a renter to leave without a valid reason. Even when a fixed term ends, the agreement will automatically roll into a month-to-month arrangement unless both parties agree to a new term or you have a lawful reason to issue a notice to vacate. Valid reasons still include selling the property, major renovations or a breach such as unpaid rent.
Longer notice for rent increases
You will need to give ninety days notice for any rent increase. This gives renters more time to plan, which means you will need to plan ahead too. Shorter notice still applies if the renter is at fault.
Rental bidding is fully banned
You cannot accept or encourage any offers above the advertised rent. You also cannot accept more than one month of rent in advance, even if a renter offers it voluntarily. The advertised price must be the price.
Minimum standards must be met before advertising
Properties must meet all minimum standards at the time they are listed online or shown to renters. It is now an offence to advertise a property that falls short. A new requirement also begins on 1 December, which states that all internal window coverings must have secured cords.
Annual smoke alarm checks now required
Every rental property must have a smoke alarm safety check carried out each year. This applies to all agreements regardless of when they were first signed.
Greater protection for renter information
Rental providers and agents must now meet stricter rules when collecting, storing and destroying renter information. You cannot disclose any personal information without consent and you must take steps to de-identify information when it is no longer required.
More minimum standards from 1 December 2025
Two further changes begin in December. All rental properties must have blind cords secured so they cannot form loops. Rooming houses must provide a fixed heater for every resident’s room.
New application rules from March 2026
From 31 March 2026, every rental application must use the new prescribed form. You will also be limited in what information you can request from applicants. Only details needed to confirm identity and assess suitability can be collected. Third-party platforms can still be used but they will no longer be allowed to charge application or rent payment fees to renters.
Stronger oversight of rent increases
Consumer Affairs Victoria and VCAT will have more power to assess whether a proposed rent increase is excessive. Additional factors can now be considered as part of an investigation.
More reforms still to come
The Victorian Parliament is considering further changes, which will be announced once finalised. This timeline will continue to evolve over the coming months.
Need help navigating the new rules
If you want support preparing for these changes or would like guidance on how they affect your property, reach out to Club Property Management. Email the team at leasing@clubpropertymanagement.com.au for help understanding your obligations and keeping your investment fully compliant.
Source: Consumer Affairs Victoria. “New changes to the rental laws.” Updated 2025.