Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) will go live on Monday, June 23.
According to the state government, RDRV will 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.
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.
According to the government, more than 60 per cent 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.
Minister for Consumer Affairs Nick Staikos said “This will be a new free, fast and fair service for resolving disputes over rent increases, damages, repairs and bonds.”
President of Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal The Hon. Justice Woodward added “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.”
