The Justice and Community Safety Directorate has issued an updated edition of the ‘Renting Book’ to help tenants in Canberra understand the rental laws and their rights in the Territory’s rental system.
Authorised by the Commissioner for Fair Trading, the book was launched by Attorney-General Shane Rattenbury who said it was important it was updated following significant legislative changes as well as a desire to make the Book more accessible.
“Almost a third of Canberrans rent, so we want to ensure that all renters in the ACT are aware of their rights,” Mr Rattenbury said.
“The Renting Book is a great resource for tenants and contains lots of useful, updated and accessible information including content on the range of changes that have been made to improve residential tenancy laws over the past few years,” he said.
“It will be a useful resource to tenants, including those moving to Canberra at the beginning of the year for study or work.”
Mr Rattenbury said the updated Renting Book would also help landlords and real estate agents ensure properties were managed appropriately and in accordance with the law.
He said that under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997, landlords were required to provide a copy of the Renting Book to tenants or advise them where they could get a copy before the commencement of their tenancy.
“While the information in the Renting Book covers the main issues that may arise before, during and after a tenancy, it is a guide only and I would encourage all tenants to always read their tenancy agreement closely and seek legal advice if unsure about their rights or responsibilities,” he said.
Mr Rattenbury said the Renting Book would be updated again in the coming months to incorporate changes due to come into effect in March.
The 66-page Renting Book can be accessed on the Justice and Community Safety Directorate’s website at this PS News link.
