Progress and Challenges
The NSW government's key election promise to ease the burden of moving costs for renters through a "portable bonds" scheme is still in the works. The scheme, which will digitally transfer bonds between properties, is expected to be operational in the second half of 2024.
Rental Commissioner Trina Jones, marking a year in her role, is also tackling the issue of "no-grounds evictions." Legislation to outlaw this practice is expected in September 2024, with penalties severe enough to deter landlords from exploiting the loophole.
Another election promise, allowing pets in rental properties without requiring landlord consent, is proving more challenging. Public consultation revealed significant division on the issue, and the government is yet to announce a timeline for implementation.
Jones, previously CEO of Homelessness NSW, acknowledges the need for reform in this area. She encourages tenants facing unfair rent increases to seek redress through the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT). However, she remains non-committal on proposals to shift the burden of proof onto landlords in such cases.
While progress is being made on some fronts, renters will need to wait for further developments on the pet policy and rent increase regulations.