Today's announcement by the Tasmanian Government to extend the emergency period under the Residential Tenancy Act 1997 to 1 December 2020 has been welcomed by the Real Estate Institute of Australia.

The Tasmanian Government announced the emergency period under the Residential Tenancy Act 1997 would be extended to 1 December 2020.  

This means that all protections currently in place for residential tenants will continue until this date. 

The Government has also announced additional measures to support tenants and landlords, including:

• extending the Rent Relief Fund (including a second round of payments);
• a new Landlord Support Fund; and
• allowing tenants in rent arrears at the end of the emergency period to apply to the Residential Tenancy Commissioner for a repayment plan.

“With the time frame for the initial moratorium on rental evictions fast approaching tenants, landlords and agents are eagerly awaiting responses from each state and territory government,” said REIA president Adrian Kelly. 

“The Tasmanian Government’s response has to be commended. 

“It realistically acknowledges that it is both tenants and landlords that may be suffering from the adverse impacts of the pandemic by offering assistance to both.  

“It also makes it clear that a repayment plan needs to be negotiated – an area where real estate professionals can assist. 

“The real estate profession has acted quickly and responsibly in response to developments to date including managing day-to-day issues between tenants and owners and being responsible for the care and maintenance of the property and ensuring the health and safety of tenants, their visitors, customers, clients and staff. It will continue to do so. 

Mr Kelly said Tasmania has outlined a sensible and pragmatic framework with a very clear signal for other jurisdictions less affected by COVID to look at carefully. 

“We encourage all premiers and relevant Ministers to look closely at this approach,” said Mr Kelly. 

Similar to this:

Renters get a break shows latest REIA report

Housing affordability improves while rental affordability declines: report

Quarterly housing report shows affordability improved