Understanding Rental Discrimination Risks in Tasmania

Discrimination in housing is a significant issue that affects many renters in Tasmania. As a renter, understanding your rights and the potential risks of discrimination can help you navigate your rental journey with confidence. This guide covers key aspects of discrimination as they relate to Tasmania, offering practical advice and resources for those affected.

Discrimination in Renting: What It Means

Rental discrimination occurs when landlords or agents treat tenants unfairly based on characteristics such as age, race, gender, disability, or family status. This is prohibited under both federal and Tasmanian law. The Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth) and the Residential Tenancy Act 1997 (Tas) provide frameworks to protect tenants against such discrimination.

Common Scenarios of Rental Discrimination

• Discriminatory Application Processes: Landlords cannot reject your rental application based solely on discriminatory factors.
• Bias in Rent Increases: You should not face unfair rent increases due to racial or familial status.
• Unfair Evictions: Evictions must be based on lawful grounds and not influenced by discriminatory biases.

Recognizing Signs of Discrimination

Being aware of the subtler signs of discrimination can help you identify and address issues early on. These may include:

• Unequal treatment in lease terms
• Inconsistent application procedures
• Exclusion from property viewings based on personal characteristics

If you experience any of these, it's crucial to document the incidents and seek advice.

What to Do If You Experience Discrimination

Document Your Experience

Keep detailed records of any interactions that you believe may constitute discrimination. This may include emails, messages, and noted conversations.

Seek Advice and Support

Contact tenants' advocacy groups or legal aid organizations that can offer free advice and representation.

• Consider contacting the Tasmanian Consumer, Building and Occupational Services for guidance on tenants' rights.

For formal complaints, you may also lodge a complaint with the Tasmanian Anti-Discrimination Commissioner.

Moving Forward Legally

If the issue persists, consider pursuing legal action through the Tasmania Residential Tenancy Commissioner. Ensure that you have all your documentation and evidence organized.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need further assistance, reach out to these organizations:

• Consumer, Building and Occupational Services - Offers comprehensive information on tenant rights in Tasmania.
• Hobart Community Legal Service - Provides free legal advice and assistance.
• Equal Opportunity Tasmania - Handles complaints of discrimination and provides advice.

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1. What are my rights as a renter in Tasmania regarding discrimination?Renters in Tasmania are protected against discrimination under the Residential Tenancy Act 1997 and the Fair Trading Act 1987. All tenants have the right to equal treatment in housing applications and during their tenancy.
2. How can I prove rental discrimination?Maintain clear records of communications with your landlord or property manager, and collect any documents that show unequal treatment. These can serve as evidence if you decide to lodge a complaint.
3. Can I be evicted for making a discrimination complaint?Evicting a tenant for making a complaint about discrimination is illegal. If you face such an eviction, it’s important to seek legal advice immediately.

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