The Tasmanian Government is being lauded as leading the charge when it comes to implementing sensible measures regarding the current rental situation.
They announced the extension of the emergency period to December 1, 2020, meaning all current residential tenant protections will hold.
In addition, they have extended the Rent Relief Fund with a second round of payments, introduced a new Landlord Support Fund, and are allowing tenants in rent arrears at the end of the emergency period to apply to the Residential Tenancy Commissioner for a repayment plan.
The Real Estate Institute of Australia welcomes this decision, calling it “a sensible and pragmatic framework” and urging other states to follow suit.
“With the time frame for the initial moratorium on rental evictions fast approaching, tenants, landlords and agents are eagerly awaiting responses from each state and territory government,” REIA president Adrian Kelly said.
“The Tasmanian Government’s response has to be commended.
“It realistically acknowledges that it is both tenants and landlords that may be suffering from the adverse impacts of the pandemic by offering assistance to both.
“It also makes it clear that a repayment plan needs to be negotiated – an area where real estate professionals can assist.”
This sits in stark contrast with the situation in Victoria, where the REIV are at war with the Victorian Government.
The REIV has instructed its members to refuse any rent renegotiation, forcing an extra level of bureaucracy they suggest the government will not be able to handle.
“While this was not unexpected, landlords have virtually no relief while tenants get substantial support,” the REIV said.
“With many reduced rental agreements due for re-negotiation this month, the REIV is advising its members to refuse to negotiate rent reductions, forcing every request into the dispute system, a system that has already failed to cope with the caseload.”
“Tasmania has outlined a sensible and pragmatic framework,” added Mr Kelly, “with a very clear signal for other jurisdictions less affected by COVID to look at carefully.
“We encourage all premiers and relevant Ministers to look closely at this approach.”
