The ACT government is seeking feedback on reforms to residential tenancy and occupancy laws, including minimum standards for requirements to improve the efficiency and thermal comfort of rental homes.

The move to introduce minimum standards for rental properties aligns with the Better Deal for Renters reform package, which National Cabinet agreed to in August 2023. This included a commitment by each state and territory to phase in minimum quality standards for rental properties. The ACT is now considering how best to do this.

Although the ACT has a legal framework for the introduction of minimum standards, so far only one has been put in place – an energy efficiency minimum standard for ceiling insulation. This very specific requirement has nonetheless placed the ACT as something of a leader in the rental requirements space, along with Victoria, which recently consulted on improvements to its standards.

The ACT is seeking feedback on options for minimum standards for ventilation, draft proofing, mould and damp. It is also considering mandatory requirements for heating and cooling (including minimum energy efficiency of appliances), transitioning away from gas appliances, and window coverings.

For more information and to comment on the consultation paper, visit the ACT government’s YourSay website.

The consultation closes on September 2, 2024.