In a move aimed at providing more assistance to Victorian renters, the state government has announced a new program that will significantly boost funding and resources for renter advocacy and advice.
The Victorian Renter Rights Program, set to commence later this year, will nearly double government funding for renter support services to $98 million over the next five years.
This marks a substantial increase from the already record $10.2 million invested in the current financial year.
Once fully operational, the program is expected to more than double the number of clients assisted annually, from 12,663 last year to around 25,500.
The new services include a Renter Rights Service offering local access to advice and support, an Older Persons Housing Rights Service, and a central Victorian Renter Helpline.
“Victoria is the best state in Australia for renters with more than 150 reforms introduced to make renting fairer and more affordable for the almost one third of Victorians who rent – these services mean more Victorians will have the support, advocacy and advice they need,” said Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos.
The program is a response to a review that found new services were needed to address population growth, workforce challenges, and provide specialist support for the most vulnerable renters.
The government is also considering the review’s findings on financial counselling and has pledged an additional $16.4 million to continue existing services for a further 12 months beyond its record funding in 2025–26.
