Renters in Victoria will soon find it easier to move homes without being stung by double bond payments, under a new law introduced by the Allan Labor Government.
The Portable Rental Bond Scheme, part of the Consumer Legislation Amendment Bill 2025, was introduced to Parliament by Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos. The reform allows renters to transfer their existing bond directly to a new property, easing the financial pressure of paying a second bond before the first is refunded.
More than 736,000 households across the state are expected to benefit from the change. Renters will be able to apply online to transfer their bond through the new scheme, which aims to remove one of the biggest up-front hurdles when moving.
The government will guarantee the bond amount in advance to the previous rental provider until the tenancy is finalised. If the provider’s claim on a bond is approved, the renter will repay the government instead, either up front or in instalments.
Alongside portable bonds, the Bill includes several measures to make renting fairer and safer. It will require landlords and agents to provide supporting documentation for bond claims three days before they can be lodged, and to include that evidence when applying to VCAT. Additional changes include a ban on rent payment fees charged by third-party apps, expanded safety checks for gas and electrical systems across all residential agreements, and new record-keeping obligations to show properties meet minimum standards.
Premier Jacinta Allan said the reform is designed to put renters first. “We’re giving renters one less thing to worry about—and keeping money in their pocket,” she said. “Most renters don’t just have a spare few thousand dollars lying around to cover the unnecessary cost of the dreaded double bond.”
Minister Staikos said the scheme will make a practical difference for thousands of Victorians. “The Portable Rental Bond Scheme will mean renters won’t be stuck paying two bonds at once—it’s a practical change that will make a real difference.”
The introduction of portable bonds marks the 150th rental fairness reform under the Allan Labor Government, positioning Victoria as a national leader on renters’ rights.
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