Avoiding Rental Discrimination in Tasmania

In Tasmania, renters are protected by law from discrimination in various aspects of the rental process. Understanding these rights is crucial for ensuring fair treatment and equal access to housing opportunities.

Understanding Discrimination in Renting

Discrimination can occur at any stage of the renting process, from applying for a property to renewing your lease. It is unlawful for landlords or real estate agents to discriminate based on attributes such as race, sex, disability, age, or family responsibilities.

Tasmanian Anti-Discrimination Law

According to the Anti-Discrimination Act 1998 (TAS), it is illegal to treat someone unfairly due to characteristics like age, gender, or marital status. Additionally, Residential Tenancy Act 1997 also provides a framework for tenant rights which indirectly supports non-discriminatory practices.

Examples of Discrimination in Renting

• Denying an application because of the applicant's nationality.
• Charging higher rent to tenants with children.
• Refusing to make reasonable adjustments for a tenant with a disability.

Remember, you have the right to apply for properties and be evaluated based on your capacity to pay, not on personal attributes that do not affect your tenancy.

What To Do If You Face Discrimination

If you suspect discrimination, you can take the following steps to address the issue:

1. Document Everything: Keep records of communications and any potential discriminatory behavior.
2. Contact the Equal Opportunity Tasmania: They can provide advice and help you understand your options.
3. Consider Formal Action: Lodge a complaint with the Equal Opportunity Tasmania if informal discussions do not resolve the issue.

You can access the official form for lodging complaints through the Equal Opportunity Tasmania website.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Equal Opportunity Tasmania - Offers information on lodging discrimination complaints.
• Consumer, Building and Occupational Services (CBOS) - Provides resources and advice on residential tenancies.
• Legal Aid Commission of Tasmania - Offers free legal advice and representation for tenants.

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1. What protections do tenants have against discrimination in Tasmania? Tenants are protected under the Anti-Discrimination Act 1998 and the Residential Tenancy Act 1997 from unfair treatment based on attributes like race, gender, or disability.
2. Who can I contact if I face discrimination? You can contact Equal Opportunity Tasmania for advice and to lodge a formal complaint if necessary.
3. Can landlords ask about my personal attributes? Landlords can request information relevant to tenancy; however, questions related to discriminatory attributes that do not affect tenancy are inappropriate.

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Conclusion

• Understand your rights and the legal protections against discrimination when renting in Tasmania.
• Document any incidents of discrimination as evidence if you need to lodge a complaint.
• Contact local resources like Equal Opportunity Tasmania for advice and assistance.

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