Tenants can apply for a rent relief grant of up to $3,000.

 

To help people experiencing financial hardship because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, renting laws in Victoria have temporarily changed. This means that:

• From 29 March 2020, tenants can only be evicted by order of the Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). Find out more about eviction and ending leases.
• Tenants and landlords can negotiate and agree on a temporary rent reduction.
• A rent relief grant of up to $3,000 is available if an eligible tenant continues to suffer financial hardship after a rent reduction has been agreed to and registered with Consumer Affairs Victoria; this grant is paid directly to landlords.
• Landlords cannot increase the rent for their property.
• Tenants cannot be put on a residential tenancy database (blacklist) if they can’t pay rent because of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
• Land tax relief is available for landlords.

These laws apply to all tenants in a residential property and residents who live in:

• rooming houses
• social housing
• caravan or residential parks
• specialist disability accommodation

Support is available

Financial hardship is stressful and can affect you in different ways. It’s important to know that there are support services that can help you with your finances, relationships and mental health during this challenging time.

 

Further info https://www.coronavirus.vic.gov.au/renting-laws-and-support-during-coronavirus-covid-19-pandemic