Before you rent accommodation you need to know your legal rights and responsibilities under the Residential Tenancy Act.

The Student Housing Guide (pdf) can provide you with practical information and checklists

Consumer Affairs Victoria

Consumer Affairs Victoria is the governing body responsible for the Residential Tenancies Act . Consumer Affairs can provide tenants with information and advice – the following booklets provide a summary of rights and obligations

• Renting a Home  A guide for Tenants.  The landlord must give you a copy of this guide before you sign a lease (fixed term)
• Rooming Houses  A guide for Residents   - the landlord must give you a copy of this guide before you sign an agreement with no fixed term.

Tenants Union of Victoria

Tenants Union of Victoria provides information to inform and educate you as a tenant about your rights and how to improve your conditions. They produce Publications in multiple languages and provide free and confidential telephone, drop-in and email advice

You can also contact the Tenants Union of Victoria and Consumer Affairs Victoria for further information and assistance before you sign a lease or if things go wrong during the lease.

The Equal Opportunity Act makes it illegal for Landlords to discriminate against you. If you feel that you have been discriminated against, contact Student Housing Service  or the Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission.  

The Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria (DSCV) provides free mediation service to help resolve disputes.  Phone DSCV:  03 96038310

Contact us

We provide independent, confidential advice on a range of housing issues.

ASKVU: Find answers and ask questions
Phone: +61 3 9919 8801, 9919 4418 or 9919 2399
Email: housing@vu.edu.au