August 2023
Dear Client
Housing commitments front and centre at national cabinet.
Following the national cabinet meeting of state and territory leaders, the Prime Minister stated the group has agreed on a number of collective measures to address housing pressures.
This will see states and territories develop a nationally consistent policy to implement a requirement for genuine reasonable grounds for eviction; move towards limiting rent increases to once a year; and phasing in minimum rental standards.
The Prime Minister said that leaders had been able to unite on agreeing that “supply is key” in addressing the issues the country currently faces on housing, including the rapidly rising cost of rent.
Pressed on the matter, he reiterated comments made earlier in the month that he would not be asking states and territories to adopt a national cap or freeze on rents.
“Different states have different jurisdictions with respect. They have different rules. Not every state has any restrictions at all … what we’re doing is moving towards greater national consistency and making a practical difference,” he said.
“The key to addressing these issues is supply and that’s why we have focused our attention on supply,” Mr Albanese said.
Housing commitments front and centre at national cabinet – Real Estate Business
Summary of proposed Residential Tenancies (Miscellaneous) Amendment Bill 2023
Consumer & Business Services has published a Consultation Report in advance of the proposed Amendments.
We have highlighted several key provisions included in the Bill for targeted consultation below;
Inspections: A landlord (or agent) may inspect the premises no more than 4 times a year
Renting with pets: A landlord may not unreasonably withhold consent for a tenant’s request for pets at the premises, however they may impose reasonable conditions (e.g., pet must remain outdoors)
Longer tenancies: Landlords must provide a prescribed reason to terminate a fixed or periodic lease and would need to provide a minimum of 60 days’ notice to the tenant/s.
Minimum housing standards: A landlord must ensure that the premises complies with the minimum housing standards as per the Housing Improvement Act 2016. The tenant may issue notice to end the tenancy if these standards are not met.
Alteration of premises: A landlord cannot unreasonably withhold consent to a minor alteration or amendment to the property.
Statutory charges: A landlord would be liable for the water supply charge to the property.
We would encourage all clients to provide feedback using the following link. Feedback is requested by no later than close of business on 4th September.
Review of SA’s renting laws | Consumer and Business Services (cbs.sa.gov.au)
Thank you for your ongoing support!
David, Benjamin and the team at DB Philpott Real Estate
