- A discussion paper has been released to ensure annual rent increase frequency limits are effective
- It follows a roundtable hosted by Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon with peak bodies, and reports of some landlords not renewing tenancies in order to increase rents
- The paper considers tying limits to rental increases to a property rather than individual tenancies, if feedback indicates it is necessary
- The recent Queensland Budget invested more than $5 billion in increasing supply of social and affordable housing
Earlier this year, laws were passed to bring Queensland into line with New South Wales, South Australia, Victoria, Tasmania and the ACT by limiting rent increases to once per year to assist in stabilising rents.
However, reports have emerged of some landlords and agents ending leases with tenants in order to increase rents more frequently than once per year.
The discussion paper considers a proposal to ensure the intent of the laws are not circumvented, and that renters aren’t unfairly penalised by behaviour aimed at avoiding limits to rent increases.
Quotes attributable to Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon:
“I want to ensure that the original intent of our laws is respected.
“Not everyone is engaging in these tactics, and I want to acknowledge that the vast majority of agents and landlords do the right thing.
“Our reforms seek to stabilise rents which will help ensure affordability and certainty for renters in a way that also takes into account the pressures some landlords are facing.
“This discussion paper considers a proposal, and I put the idea to stakeholders before progressing.
“We’re rolling out more social and affordable housing while also providing immediate relief to those who need it, but some of the unscrupulous actions being taken by some are putting even more strain on a housing and rental market that’s feeling the impact of nationwide pressures.
“Queensland’s private rental market is a vitally important part of our overall housing mix, and I want to see that market thrive. That will happen when all players in the market act fairly and within the letter and spirit of the law.”
