Next steps to a fairer,

more modern rental market

The work to implement stage two of the Minns Labor Government’s landmark rental reforms is underway, with consultations open across the state.

12 July 2023

 

AFTER 12 years without a voice, the Minns government is asking renters – along with owners and industry – for their views on critical changes to make renting fairer.

 

Through this process, people in NSW can comment on changes that will help transform the system and bring it into the 21st century, including;

 

• ending no grounds evictions by requiring a reason to end a lease;

 

• making it easier for renters to have pets;

 

• protecting renters’ personal information and privacy;

 

• making it easier to transfer rental bonds from one property to another; and

 

• other ways to improve conditions for renters and take the pressure off.

 

The move paves the way for legislation to be introduced by the end of the year.

 

Minister for Fair Trading and Better Regulation Anoulack Chanthivong said, “Renters are under extreme pressure in a tight market, but they’re also saddled with unfair and outdated rules that make life even harder.

 

“We’re getting on with our commitment to rebalance the equation, give renters more protections and let them get on with their lives.

 

“We want to hear from everyone because renters and owners need each other, and they both need a fair set of rules.

 

“This consultation will give people across the state a voice on what they think of changes to improve stability and fairness in the current rental environment and into the future.

 

“We’re consulting now on changes to improve stability and fairness in the rental market, I’m looking forward to working with Trina to bring this work together by the end of the year. "

 

Aside from rental reforms, the Minns Government is taking steps to increase housing supply across the state with high-quality new homes to put downward pressure on rents.

 

That work includes an audit of surplus public land that could be rezoned for housing, speeding up project approvals and establishing the NSW Building Commission.

 

However, the State Government has quickly moved in the interim period to ensure that NSW renters will soon have a strong voice to government with the announcement yesterday that sector leader Trina Jones will be the first NSW Rental Commissioner.

 

The commissioner will work with the government to design and implement changes that rebalance the rental market, making it fairer and more modern.

 

In her role as NSW Rental Commissioner, Ms Jones will be a voice for renters and work with the Government and stakeholders to get moving on the reforms open for consultation now.

 

Beyond these proposed changes, the Rental Commissioner will also be responsible for identifying and investigating other issues that are impacting the NSW rental market.

 

The commissioner will examine rental affordability and supply, encourage longer term rental agreements, investigate ways to improve energy efficiency for renters, develop educational resources for renters and owners, and monitor current tenancy laws.

 

Premier of NSW Chris Minns said, “The Government’s appointment of NSW’s first Rental Commissioner is an important step to addressing some of the issues facing renters and importantly giving them a voice.

 

“Anyone who rents in NSW knows just how anxious and challenging the process can be to find suitable accommodation, not to mention the rent increases and cost of living pressures.

 

“I’m looking forward to working with the new commissioner to make our state a fairer place for both renters and owners.

 

“We can’t fix years of problems in the rental market overnight, but we have already made a start and we are determined to do more.”

 

Incoming Rental Commissioner Trina Jones said, “In taking on the role of Rental Commissioner, my mission is to amplify the voice of renters, help strengthen their rights and improve the fairness of the rental market.

 

“I look forward to working closely and productively with government, industry, renters and owners across our state as we collaboratively search for solutions to our housing challenges.”

 

People in NSW can have their say on the rental reforms until August 11. For more information visit the Have Your Say page.