REIQ secures positive revision of tenancy application form

The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) is welcoming the re-release of a revised standardised tenancy application form today, now reflecting critical stakeholder input.

From 1 May, the new standardised form will used for general tenancies in Queensland as part of the final phase of the former State Government’s stage two rental reforms, now carried forward by the LNP.

The REIQ raised the alarm when an early version of the form was made public three weeks ago without proper stakeholder consultation. The original form contained problematic wording surrounding verification of identity (VOI) requirements and other flaws. The REIQ made 19 recommendations for changes, which were adopted in the revised version of the form.

REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella said the REIQ’s concerns were met with a prompt response from Housing Minister Sam O’Connor, who ensured that the sector was heard.

“We highlighted that the initial version of the form could cause significant risk for property owners and their managers, as well as potentially undermining the prospects of success for applicants seeking to rent property in Queensland,” Ms Mercorella said.

“After receiving the REIQ’s feedback, Minister O'Connor acted quickly, engaging with the peak body to assess our concerns, including those centred around VOI.

“As a result, the form was promptly removed from the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) website while revisions were considered and input sought from relevant stakeholders involved in the tenancy sector.

“We are pleased to report that common sense has prevailed. The updated form now better reflects the legislation and the real-world needs of property managers and owners who rely on proper identification checks to manage risk and ensure tenant accountability.

“The new form strikes the right balance - tenants have a right to privacy, but property investors also have a right to know who is renting their valuable investment property. 

“We are delighted that the Housing Minister has demonstrated leadership and commitment to healthy collaboration and constructive consultation.

“This positive outcome underscores the importance of meaningful stakeholder consultation, and we are grateful for the Minister’s timely intervention and willingness to work with the REIQ and the residential tenancies sector to ensure that the final form is practical, fair and balanced.

“As the primary party responsible for processing tenancy application forms, property managers are essential stakeholders in this form’s development.

“We trust the property managers we represent in all corners of Queensland will be relieved by the final version of the form, and we thank them for their ongoing engagement with us so we could effectively advocate on their behalf.”

The new standardised rental application form is accessible on the RTA website here.

ENDS

Media enquiries:
Real Estate Institute of Queensland media:
M: 0417 623 723 E: media@reiq.com.au

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