Help for Disability Access & Adjustments in Victoria

For renters in Victoria, ensuring your home is accessible and has the necessary disability adjustments is not just about convenience—it's a right that can significantly impact your quality of life. Navigating the support systems and knowing where to seek help is crucial for those needing accommodation adjustments.

Understanding Disability Access and Adjustments

Access and adjustments for renters with disabilities involve making changes to a rental property to ensure it meets the specific needs of the tenant. This may include installing ramps, adjusting bathroom facilities, or modifying lighting systems. Importantly, these changes are often necessary for the tenant to live comfortably and safely.

Legal Requirements in Victoria

Under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 in Victoria, landlords are required to consider reasonable adjustment requests from tenants with disabilities. Moreover, discrimination against tenants with disabilities is prohibited under the Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth).

Where to Seek Help

If you need to request disability modifications to your rental property, the following steps and resources can assist:

Contact Your Landlord

Initially, communicate your needs directly with your landlord. Clearly outlining your requirements in writing can help streamline the process.

File an Application with VCAT

If you encounter resistance or refusal from your landlord, you might consider lodging an application with the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT). They handle disputes related to rental agreements, including those concerning reasonable adjustments.

Community Legal Centres

Community legal centres across Victoria offer free advice and support to renters facing disability access issues. These centres can provide guidance on your rights and the best course of action.

Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission (VEOHRC)

The VEOHRC is another pivotal resource for persons facing discrimination or denial of requests for necessary adjustments. They offer support and information on how to make a discrimination complaint.

How To Make a Change Request

1. Gather Evidence: Collect medical documentation or other evidence supporting the need for the adjustment.
2. Communicate Needs: Write to your landlord detailing the specific modifications required.
3. Submit Form: Use the RTA Notice to End Tenancy if adjustments are refused unjustly, to seek formal channels for resolution.
4. Seek Mediation: Engage with a renter advocacy service to potentially mediate the discussion with your landlord.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Consumer Affairs Victoria: Provides information and resources on rental rights and responsibilities.
• Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT): Handles disputes regarding tenancy agreements and can assist in mediation efforts.
• Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission: Offers resources on discrimination and support for tenants requiring adjustments.

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1. What should I do if my landlord refuses to make adjustments? If your landlord refuses your request for reasonable adjustments, consider contacting a community legal centre for advice or filing a claim with VCAT.
2. Can I make changes myself if my landlord doesn't respond? Generally, without agreement from your landlord, substantial changes shouldn't be made to the property. Seek legal advice as necessary.
3. Who pays for rental property modifications? Costs depend on the agreement between you and the landlord. Some adjustments might be covered by support services or grants aimed at aiding persons with disabilities.

1. How to request a disability adjustment in Victoria
   1. Step 1: Obtain documentation supporting the need for adjustments
   2. Step 2: Contact your landlord in writing, explaining the required changes and reasons
   3. Step 3: File a VCAT application if the landlord denies your request without reasonable grounds

Key Takeaways

• Understanding your rights under Victorian rental laws is crucial when seeking property adjustments for disability needs.
• Communication with your landlord is the first step, but legal avenues are available if necessary.
• Multiple resources in Victoria can assist renters in obtaining fair and reasonable accommodations.

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1. ¹“Residential Tenancies Act 1997,” Victorian Legislation, Accessed [Date].
2. ²“Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth),” Federal Register of Legislation, Accessed [Date].
3. ³“Consumer Affairs Victoria: Renting,” Consumer Affairs Victoria, Accessed [Date].

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