Victorian Premier, Jacinta Allan and Minister for Consumer Affairs, Nick Staikos, have today confirmed Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) will go live on Monday, helping Victorian renters and landlords resolve simple disputes – fast, fair and free.
RDRV has been set up to help renters and rental providers settle disputes over bonds, compensation, repairs and rent increases in a more informal setting, freeing up VCAT to deal with other cases.
The free service – announced as part of the Government’s housing and renting fairness reforms – will give renters a fairer go without the barrier of expensive legal fees or an intimidating VCAT hearing, said the Premier.
“Renters deserve a quick, fair and free way to deal with disputes – and I’m on their side. Everyone will now have a place to turn to solve common disputes without the hassle and stress of a formal VCAT hearing,” she said.
Anyone involved in a residential tenancy dispute can access the free service by calling 1300 01 7378, jumping online, or attending RDRV in person.
At RDRV, highly skilled resolution experts will work to bring parties together and resolve rental disputes quickly and avoid a formal hearing. They will oversee each case from start to finish.
A new team of around 40 resolution coordinators have been recruited and trained to handle cases, and an additional 10 staff will soon join as intake officers to support the RDRV call centre.
RDRV will be headquartered on King Street in the CBD with four community locations at Oakleigh, Bundoora, Frankston and Bendigo. It’s also a digital-friendly service that can be easily accessed and used online.
“Each RDRV application will be case managed by a resolution coordinator, who will oversee the case and be the key contact for both parties, from start to finish,” said President of Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal, Justice Woodward.
More than 60% of disputes are expected to be able to be resolved through RDRV.
Consumer Affairs Victoria will still be accessible to people seeking information to better understand their rights.
