Advocacy

Advocacy

Your Voice For Our Industry

The REIV is the trusted voice of Victoria’s real estate profession. We work closely with government, regulators, industry stakeholders, and the media to shape fair and practical policy outcomes that support members, protect consumers, and strengthen the property sector.  

Through active engagement, evidence-based submissions, and public advocacy, the REIV ensures the interests of our industry are heard at every level of decision-making. 

Policy Priorities

Ensuring a sustainable and equitable rental market

The REIV advocates for a fair and equitable rental market by promoting balanced regulations and ongoing support for rental providers and real estate professionals. 

This includes advocating through submissions and government engagement on rental reforms currently being implemented through Victoria’s Statement. 

Supporting professional standards

The REIV is committed to ensuring real estate professionals are educated, informed, and fully compliant with all qualification and registration requirements. 

This includes providing high-quality education through the REIV’s training programs, advising on the development of new regulations affecting education and registration, and offering a comprehensive suite of CPD courses to support best practice and compliance. 

Promoting fair taxation

The REIV is committed to promoting fair and sustainable property taxation, including land tax and stamp duty, to support a stable and accessible property market. 

This includes delivering member- and data-driven insights on new and existing taxation settings, as well as preparing regular government submissions, including academic papers and budget recommendations. 

Advocacy Wins

Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards

The Victorian Government is introducing minimum energy efficiency standards for rental properties. Following REIV advocacy, these standards will be phased in gradually to support rental providers and maintain stability in the rental market. 

AML/CTF Rules

Following sustained REIV advocacy, coordinated with other REIs, AUSTRAC has adopted key recommendations in the final AML/CTF Rules. This includes refined practical due diligence requirements and reduced compliance burdens for real estate agents. 

Inquiry into Housing Supply in Regional Victoria

Following its detailed submission to the Parliamentary Inquiry into Regional Housing Supply, the REIV was invited to present its recommendations in person, reinforcing the urgent need for property tax and planning reform to unlock regional housing supply. 

Sector Legislation & Regulation

Estate Agents Act

Estate Agents Act

The Estate Agents Act 1980 governs the licensing, conduct, and responsibilities of real estate agents in Victoria to ensure ethical and professional standards across the industry. The Act outlines the rules and regulations agents must follow, including licensing requirements, duties and responsibilities, and procedures for resolving disputes. 

Residential Tenancies Act

Residential Tenancies Act

The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 governs rental agreements in Victoria and sets out the rights and responsibilities of rental providers and renters. The Act outlines legal obligations for real estate agents regarding advertising, rent collection, maintenance, bond management, disclosures, entry notices, and dispute resolution. 

Owners Corporation Act

Owners Corporation Act

The Owners Corporations Act 2006 governs the management and operation of owners corporations, formerly known as body corporates. The Act outlines the duties and powers of owners corporations, including maintaining common areas, financial management, dispute resolution, and rule enforcement. 

Retail Leases Act

Retail Leases Act

The Retail Leases Act 2003 governs retail shop leases in Victoria and aims to protect small business tenants by ensuring fair and transparent leasing practices. The Act outlines clear disclosure of lease terms, ensures tenants receive adequate documentation before signing, indicates what costs landlords can pass on, and mandates minimum lease standards. 

Sale of Land Act

Sale of Land Act

The Sale of Land Act 1962 governs how land is sold, focusing on protecting buyers by requiring important disclosures from vendors before contracts are signed. The Act outlines the conduct of auctions, deposit handling, sunset clauses for off-the-plan sales, and prohibits misleading or deceptive conduct. 

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