Your Rights for Disability Access in Queensland

Living with a disability in Queensland comes with unique challenges, especially when it involves renting a home. It’s crucial to understand your rights to ensure your living space can accommodate your needs, with reasonable adjustments and disability access as guaranteed by law.

Understanding Your Rights for Disability Access

In Queensland, tenants with disabilities are protected under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008¹. This act requires landlords to provide reasonable adjustments to the property, ensuring accessibility and usability for tenants with disabilities.

What Are Reasonable Adjustments?

Reasonable adjustments could include installing ramps, modifying bathrooms, or widening doorframes. The aim is to remove barriers and enhance accessibility without imposing undue hardship on the landlord or altering the rental property drastically.

How to Request Adjustments

It's important to formally submit your request to your landlord in writing. The Form 9 - Entry Condition Report could be pertinent when modifications affect the property's condition. You can find this form and guidance on its use at the Queensland Government's Housing page.

When making a request, detail your requirements and, if possible, support your request with a letter from a healthcare provider. If your request is reasonable and the adjustments are necessary, this should facilitate a positive response from your landlord.

Legal Protections and Dispute Resolution

If a disagreement arises regarding reasonable adjustments, Queensland's Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) handles such disputes. They provide an official avenue to resolve conflicts between tenants and landlords, ensuring fair treatment for all parties involved.

Federally, renters are also protected under the Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth), which promotes fair trading practices and protects against discrimination.

FAQ Section

1. What is considered a reasonable adjustment?
   A reasonable adjustment may involve modifications like installing ramps or wider doors to improve accessibility without causing significant changes or costs to the property.
2. Can a landlord refuse disability-related modifications?
   They can only refuse if the modifications incur significant property damage or if the requests are unreasonable based on the situation.
3. Where can I get help if my landlord refuses necessary adjustments?
   You can approach the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) for assistance.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Residential Tenancies Authority - Assists with tenancy information and dispute resolution.
• Queensland Community Legal Centres - Offers free legal advice and assistance.
• Queensland Advocacy Incorporated - Provides advocacy for people with disabilities.

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Footnotes

1. Queensland Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008, available at: legislation.qld.gov.au.
2. Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth), available at: legislation.gov.au.

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