Government legislation a good start but more is needed to protect vulnerable residents.
“The Tenants Union of Victoria has campaigned for 7 years for legislative coverage for residents of shared rooms- not because it is a desirable housing option- but because it is critical that the most vulnerable and disadvantaged renters receive strong legislative protection. We are pleased to have been able to convince the Government that such protection was both necessary and possible,” Mr Imber said.

The 1998 Court of Appeal decision of Kirkland Fisher v Aboriginal Hostels found that residents sharing rooms or occupying rooms capable of being shared did not have exclusive possession and therefore were not covered by the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.

“It is a shocking indictment on the state of the housing market that in 2005 many hundreds of Victorians have no option but to occupy a shared room as the only form of accommodation that they can afford.”

“We are also concerned that this legislation may open the door to inappropriate sharing as the Bill does not provide provisions for residents’ views to be taken into account, or even notice given to them, in relation to the person that they are being asked to share with. We expect the Government to monitor the impacts on rooming house residents following this Bill to ensure that sharing of rooms does not become entrenched and that the rights of residents are protected in reality as well in legislation.” Mr Imber said

“The change to the caravan park provision is a good first step but does not go nearly far enough and leaves permanent residents subject to inaction on repairs, liable for unfair rent increases and even eviction at any day prior to their 60th day of residency. There is no sound reason why a waiting period is required for these permanent residents while all other renters- including those in shared rooms- get protection under the Act from their first day of residency.”

The Tenants Union of Victoria, which provides a statewide caravan park service, will continue campaigning for the probationary period to be abolished.

The Tenants Union of Victoria provides a free information service to all Victorian renters including rooming house and caravan park residents. Our advice line can be contacted on 9416 2577 (every weekday except Wednesday 9am- 4pm, Wednesday 4.30pm- 8pm). Renters can also find a variety of information at website.

Website: For more information visit the Tenants Union of Victoria website
Contact Name: David Imber, Policy and Liaison Worker, Tenants Union of Victoria
Contact Phone: 9411 1413 or 0419 568 653




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