The Greens welcome the Government’s decision to move forward the commencement of the review of the Residential Tenancy Act. It’s a welcome opportunity to ensure renters have real rights, and we call on the government to ensure it is concluded well ahead of the previous, mid-2027 deadline.
Two years on from the national “A Better Deal for Renters” agreement, the Tasmanian Government has failed to make the progress on improving renters’ rights that was promised.
Tasmania is amongst the worst states on progressing rental reforms, according to a new report by National Shelter and the National Association of Renters’ Organisations.
Despite promises from the Liberals, Tasmania still has some of the worst rental laws in the country. Rent can be jacked up considerably, tenants can be evicted at the end of their lease without reason and whole-home rentals are being lost to short stay accommodation like Airbnb.
Tasmanians are struggling in the housing and cost of living crises. Trying to find an affordable place to live has become a nightmare.
This review of Tasmania’s rental laws is desperately needed. We congratulate the Tenants’ Union of Tasmania and all who have called for the review of our rental laws to be brought forward.
While we welcome the review, it must not be used as an excuse to kick the can down the road further on reform for renters. It’s beyond time the Liberal Government ensured Tasmanian renters have real rights to improve their lives in the duel cost of living and housing crisis.
