The Victorian Government says its new Residential Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) service is delivering fast and free outcomes for renters and landlords, easing pressure on the tribunal system.
Consumer Affairs Minister Nick Staikos announced the figures during a visit to Tenants Victoria with renters Macy and Ali, noting that more than 2,200 disputes have already been resolved since the service began almost three months ago.
“Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria has already helped thousands of Victorian renters and rental providers achieve fast and positive resolutions—saving time, stress and money for Victorians,” Mr Staikos said. “This is a new free, fast and fair service for resolving disputes over rent increases, damages, repairs and bonds.”
The service is designed to make access to justice easier, especially for those facing disadvantage. RDRV staff have already fielded more than 14,300 calls—about 290 a day—with close to 90 per cent of resolved disputes avoiding the need for a Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) hearing.
The average resolution time is less than 13 days. Officials expect the service will take on more than half of VCAT’s Residential Tenancies List caseload in its first year. Bonds, compensation claims, excessive rent increases, and urgent repairs have been among the most common issues raised.
Disputes are resolved through information provision, facilitated discussions, mediation, or, in some cases, hearings. RDRV operates from a central office in Melbourne’s CBD and community locations in Oakleigh, Bundoora, Frankston and Bendigo, and also provides online access.
Justice Woodward, President of VCAT, said the early response to the new service was encouraging. “It’s been pleasing to see the early uptake of services through RDRV, with thousands of Victorians having already benefited from accessing more information, facilitated discussions and mediation services.”
The initiative is part of the Labor Government’s broader plan to strengthen renters’ rights. Victoria has already introduced more than 100 reforms, with further measures on the way including portable bonds, tougher penalties for non-compliant landlords and greater powers to curb excessive rent increases.
Anyone involved in a tenancy dispute can contact RDRV on 1300 01 7378 or at rdrv.vic.gov.au.
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