As a union we stand against the right for housing to be dictated and dependent on market forces.
To make sure we can fight back against excessive increases we’re joining together in Union to push back on unaffordable rents. This information can help in challenging a rent increase, but we’re stronger in Union.
You have the right to 60 days notice, and during this 60 days, you have a right to challenge it if you think it might be excessive.
What’s the process of a rent increase?
For all tenancies:
- Your landlord must give you 60 days notice of the proposed increase
- The proposed rent increase must be submitted to you via the standard form.
- On this form, your landlord must include the method by which the rent increase was calculated. The rent increase cannot be greater than the amount calculated using this method.
- If you believe the increase to be excessive, you have a right to challenge it
- You must challenge the increase within 30 days of receiving the form
- You can find out if the increase is excessive by comparing it to other listed properties near you or the Consumer Price Index (CPI)
- You can challenge the rent increase by ticking the box on the rent increase form, adding your contact number, and emailing this to [email protected].
What counts as excessive?
As a union we stand against the right for housing to be dictated and dependent on market forces.
For us renters stuck in the private market, the legislation defines ‘excessive’ by the rental market and its supply and demand.
To make sure we can fight back against excessive increases we’re joining together in Union to push back on unaffordable rents.
Consumer Affairs Victoria states the measurements used to calculate this are the current Consumer Price Index (CPI) or the Statewide Rent Index (SRI).
Download the form to challenge a rent increase here
My landlord/agent has sent me an email saying they are increasing the rent
This is not in the correct form, and is therefore not valid.
Further resources:
Consumer Affairs Victoria: Rent Increases
Download the form to challenge a rent increase here
Don’t forget
Renters’ legal rights are only as strong as our willingness to enforce them. Talking to your housemates, neighbours, friends and other comrades about your plans, concerns and successes helps us all grow stronger.
We’re joining together in Union to make sure we can fight back against excessive increases and we need you with us.
Join the Renters And Housing Union here
Contact your RAHU Branch for support:
North Branch: Darebin & MerriBek – [email protected]
Inner Melbourne Branch: Melbourne City & Yarra – [email protected]
West Branch: Wyndham, Brimbank & Melton – [email protected]
General Membership Branch: Australia wide – [email protected].
RAHU believes our members are stronger when we have access to useful and practical information about our rights. However, this is general information only, not legal advice.
If you need legal advice, please contact a community legal centre.