What are the new Victorian rental reforms that affect room renters in Melbourne in 2026?

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The Victorian Government introduced significant rental reforms in 2026 that directly affect anyone renting or renting out a room in Melbourne. Here is what changed.

Key changes that apply to room renters in 2026:

1. Rent increase notice extended to 90 days Landlords must now give at least 90 days' written notice before any rent increase — up from 60 days. This applies to all periodic tenancies and to fixed-term leases that allow mid-lease rent increases.

2. Stronger evidence required for bond claims Landlords must now provide proper evidence (photos, invoices, receipts) to support any deduction from a rental bond. Making bond claims without adequate documentation now carries financial penalties.

3. Minimum standards tightened Properties that do not meet minimum standards cannot be advertised for rental. Landlords are required to confirm compliance before re-letting a property after a vacancy.

4. Restrictions on personal information requests Landlords and agents can no longer request certain personal information during rental applications — this includes tax file numbers, internet search history or social media logins.

5. Portable bond scheme (being introduced) A new portable bond scheme will allow renters to transfer their bond from one Melbourne rental directly to the next — eliminating the cash flow problem of paying a new bond before receiving the old one.

6. Rent Controls Bill (under debate) A Rent Controls Bill was introduced to the Victorian Parliament on 1 April 2026. If passed, it would cap annual rent increases for all Victorian rental properties. As of mid-2026, this bill is still being debated — check vic.gov.au for the latest status.