The Department of Communities, Housing and Digital Economy has developed legislation to make renting fairer.
Minister for Communities and Housing, Leeanne Enoch said the new laws, which had passed Parliament, would end ‘without grounds’ evictions and make it easier for Queensland renters to keep a pet.
“The new laws will also ensure all Queensland rental properties meet minimum quality standards and extend protections for renters who have experienced domestic and family violence,” Ms Enoch said.
“Queenslanders rely on safe, secure and affordable housing and we’re delivering on our election commitments to modernise Queensland’s rental laws and improve confidence in the rental market,” she said.
The Minister said about 34 per cent of Queensland households rented, and the laws provided a strong, balanced approach that protected the rights of renters and rental property owners, while improving stability in the rental market.
“At a time when Queenslanders are renting, and renting for longer, the Government is encouraging market growth to help increase the number of rental properties in Queensland, while protecting the rights of renters,” she said.
“Our legislation strikes the right balance between the needs of the community, while also supporting continued investment in the private rental market.”
Ms Enoch said some of the renting reforms, such as the domestic and family violence measure, were tested during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This provision ensures people fleeing domestic and family violence are able to end a lease with seven days’ notice or change locks on a rental property without the owner’s consent to ensure their safety,” Ms Enoch said.
