Victorians renting a new home will no longer have to juggle paying a second rental bond before their existing bond is returned, thanks to a new law introduced by the Allan Labor Government.
Premier Jacinta Allan said, “We’re giving renters one less thing to worry about – and keeping money in their pocket.”
“Most renters don’t just have a spare few thousand dollars lying around to cover the unnecessary cost of the dreaded double bond.”
Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos today introduced the Consumer Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, which establishes a Portable Rental Bond Scheme allowing renters to transfer their existing bond directly to their new property.
Staikos added,
“The Portable Rental Bond Scheme will mean renters won’t be stuck paying two bonds at once — it’s a practical change that will make a real difference.”
The change is expected to benefit more than 736,000 households, easing the financial strain of moving by removing the need to pay a double bond. Renters will be able to apply online to port their bond across to their new home.
The Government will guarantee the bond amount in advance to the original rental provider until the first tenancy is finalised. If a bond claim is successful, the renter will repay the Government rather than the rental provider, either upfront or in stages.
The Bill also delivers additional protections aimed at making renting fairer and properties safer. Rental providers will be required to provide documentary evidence supporting a bond claim three days before lodging it.
Extra fees charged when renters pay via “rent tech” apps will be banned, and records must be kept to show rental properties meet minimum standards. Gas and electrical safety checks will apply to all residential rental agreements, and gas checks must be conducted before draughtproofing activities to ensure appliances operate safely.
Victoria’s portable bond initiative marks the 150th rental fairness reform delivered under the Labor Government, further cementing the state’s position as a national leader on renters’ rights.
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