The Greens have unveiled plans to introduce new laws to strengthen renters’ rights in the next parliament, amid what they say is a worsening housing affordability crisis.
The proposed changes aim to tackle issues like unreasonable rent hikes, unfair evictions and restrictions on pet ownership and simple property modifications.
Housing spokesperson Vica Bayley said the two major parties have failed to address the challenges faced by Tasmanian renters.
“Trying to find an affordable place to live has become a nightmare,” he said.
“Tasmanians are already struggling through a cost of living crisis and jacked up rental prices are only making things worse.”
The Greens’ plan includes protections against excessive rent rises, stopping end-of-lease evictions without a valid reason, allowing tenants to have pets and make minor changes and ensuring all rentals meet basic energy efficiency standards.
The party says past attempts to pass similar laws were blocked when Labor “teamed up” with the Liberals to vote them down.
“Right now renters can be subjected to rent increases of hundreds of dollars a week for no good reason and can be unfairly evicted without cause at the end of their lease,” Bayley said.
“And they can’t even make minor modifications like installing hand rails for disability access and safety or locks for security. This has to change.”
The Greens’ previous push to secure renters the right to have pets had won Liberal support but didn’t pass before the early election was called.
