Tasmanian landlords may lose the right to refuse tenants with pets from renting their property if the Liberal Party wins next month’s election.
A re-elected Liberal government is promising to change the Residential Tenancy Act so tenants can stay with their pets.
“Renters shouldn’t have to choose between having a place to live and the pet they love,” Jeremy Rockliff said.
“We will immediately amend the Residential Tenancy Act to ensure Tasmanian renters can have their treasured family pet living with them, as a right.”
He said his government would also add 200 new rentals to the Private Rental Incentive Scheme, while also imposing a cap on rents at 30% below the median rate.
Land tax will be waived for up to three years for newly-built rental properties and short-stay homes turned long-term rentals.
“Those who build to rent will be free of land tax for three years, which could save them $6,000, while those who switch a short stay to rent won’t pay land tax for a year and they will save $2,000,” Rockliff said.
“We know it’s tough for many Tasmanians to secure a rental property in the current market … We will ensure that locals can both find and afford a rental in their home state so they can stay, learn, earn and raise a family right here.”
The Liberals estimate the policy will cost $3.875 million each year for two years.
