The South Australian government is planning to introduce rental reforms that would prevent landlords from evicting tenants without a valid reason. Under the proposed changes, landlords would only be able to terminate a periodic tenancy or refuse to renew a fixed-term lease if there is a prescribed reason, such as tenant breaches, property sale, renovation, or occupancy.
One of the key components of the proposed reforms is an extension of the minimum notice period to end a tenancy. Currently set at 28 days, the government wants to increase it to 60 days. This would provide tenants with more time to find a new home and make necessary arrangements for the transition.
The move to implement these reforms is inspired by the state’s record low vacancy rate of less than one percent. It reflects the government’s recognition of the housing insecurity faced by many South Australian tenants, who fear becoming homeless if their leases are terminated.
Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs, Andrea Michaels, underscored the importance of these reforms in addressing housing insecurity for tenants while still allowing landlords to end tenancies for valid reasons. She emphasized the need to strike a balance between providing tenants with additional security in their rental homes and affording landlords the opportunity to terminate tenancies when necessary.
To ensure comprehensive stakeholder engagement, the government plans to consult with various groups before introducing a bill in parliament later this year. The proposed reforms have received support from the Anti-Poverty Network SA, with spokesperson Michael Petrilli highlighting the positive impact they would have on renters’ stability and security. Petrilli, however, emphasized the need for the state government to go a step further and address unlimited rent rises. The organization called for an emergency two-year rent freeze followed by the implementation of rent controls to ensure fair and reasonable rent increases.
The proposed reforms also include provisions allowing tenants to have pets in rental properties, subject to reasonable conditions set by their landlords, such as keeping the animals outside. This change recognizes the importance of companion animals to tenants’ overall well-being while considering the potential impact on the property.
By enforcing these rental reforms, the South Australian government seeks to create a fairer and more secure rental market for tenants, while simultaneously acknowledging the rights and responsibilities of landlords. The dialogue with stakeholder groups will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping the final legislation and addressing any concerns or suggestions from both tenants and landlords alike. Overall, the reforms aim to strike a balance that promotes stability and fairness in the rental system, ensuring that tenants are not unfairly evicted while landlords can effectively manage their properties.
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