REIV must retract callous and dangerous landlord COVID directive

MEDIA RELEASE

A decision by the Real Estate Institute of Victoria to advise landlords to stop negotiating rent reductions for struggling tenants is heartless, boneheaded and must be reversed.

The landlords’ lobby made the incendiary call after the Victorian Government released its roadmap for easing restrictions.

VCOSS CEO Emma King said the REIV’s move would increase hardship for private renters and embolden dodgy landlords.

“The REIV need to pull their heads in and retract this misguided, callous and dangerous directive,” she said.

“Rent reductions are a key part of protecting tenants from eviction and homelessness during COVID—a process agreed to by the National Cabinet.”

“That system is reliant on good faith negotiations between tenants and landlords.”

“Intentionally undermining this process is a kick in the guts for renters.”

“Landlords must understand if they refuse to enter into a good faith negotiation, they’ll be compelled to enter into a formal dispute resolution.”

“There’s no getting around this. The law is the law.”

“The Victorian Government is urging everybody to stay safe in their homes. It’s appalling the REIV is pushing in the opposite direction, and using tenants as a bargaining chip.”

 

Ms King appeared on ABC Melbourne to express VCOSS’ disgust on behalf of Victorian renters.