Self-help tools and resources for Victorian renters 

Use Dear Landlord

We’ve seen first-hand the importance of supporting Victorian renters to negotiate rent reduction agreements with their landlords and avoid eviction, especially since the outbreak of COVID-19 and the announcement of a temporary ‘eviction moratorium’.

That’s why we’ve relaunched Dear Landlord – a self-help tool that can identify what actions you need to take, guide you through the process, and provide the necessary resources and information to help you stay in your home.  

Under the current laws, you can still request a rent reduction until 28 March 2021. From 29 March 2021, new renting laws will come into effect. This means if you fall behind in rent due to COVID-19, your landlord can take steps to evict you.

Dear Landlord

If you’re struggling to pay rent, Dear Landlord can help you negotiate a rent reduction with your landlord before 29 March 2021. From 29 March 2021, new renting laws will come into effect which means if you fall behind in rent due to COVID-19 your landlord can take steps to evict you.

Dear Landlord can help you to take early, proactive steps if you’ve been affected by COVID–19 and you are struggling to pay rent. Simply answer a few questions and Dear Landlord will help determine the best way forward, whether that’s helping you draft a rent reduction letter to your landlord, contacting Consumer Affairs Victoria to help negotiate a rent reduction, getting tips for mediation, appearing at VCAT, or ending a lease.

Dear Landlord can help you if: 

• You are renting a residential property in Victoria 
• Your property is owned by a private landlord (you may rent the property directly from the landlord or through a real estate agent) 
• You have been affected by COVID-19  
• You have a rent related problem 

Use Dear Landlord

More links and resources