Step-by-Step Guide to Disability Access Adjustments in Victoria

Living with a disability can present unique challenges, especially when renting in Victoria. As a renter, you have the right to request reasonable adjustments to ensure your home is accessible and meets your needs. Understanding these rights and knowing how to request such adjustments can significantly improve your renting experience.

Understanding Disability Access and Adjustments

In Victoria, landlords have a responsibility to consider reasonable adjustments for tenants with disabilities. This is part of ensuring everyone has equal access to safe and secure housing. Adjustments might include installing ramps, handrails, or other modifications as needed.

Step-by-Step Guide to Request Adjustments

Here's how you, as a tenant in Victoria, can request disability access adjustments:

1. Identify Your Needs: Start by determining what specific adjustments you require for accessibility. This could include structural changes or additional fittings.
2. Submit a Request to Your Landlord: Put your request in writing to your landlord, clearly stating what adjustments you need and why they are necessary. Provide any relevant medical certificates or support from healthcare professionals.
3. Engage in Negotiation: Be open to discussing the request with your landlord. In some cases, the landlord might propose alternative solutions that are more feasible but still meet your needs.
4. Apply to VCAT if Needed: If your landlord refuses the request without a valid reason, you can apply to the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) for a resolution. The form to use is the Tenant - Discrimination Application Form.

Legal Framework

The Residential Tenancies Act 1997 in Victoria underpins tenants' rights to request reasonable adjustments. Modifications should not be unreasonably denied and must comply with the guidelines set out in the Act.

For more detailed legal guidance, you can review the Act on the Victorian Legislation website.

FAQ Section

1. What is considered a reasonable adjustment? Reasonable adjustments can vary but typically include modifications that do not impose undue hardship on the landlord, such as installation of ramps or handrails.
2. Can my landlord refuse to make adjustments? A landlord can refuse if the adjustment poses a significant burden, but they must justify their decision, and there are pathways for tenants to challenge refusals.
3. Who pays for the modifications? Generally, the tenant is responsible for the costs, but funding assistance may be available through disability services.

How To File a Request for Disability Adjustments

1. Identify the Required Adjustments: Determine the specific modifications needed to accommodate your disability.
2. Submit a Request: Write a detailed request to your landlord explaining the necessity of the requested adjustments.
3. Provide Supporting Documentation: Attach any necessary documentation, such as medical notes, to support your request.
4. Engage in Dialogue: Communicate with your landlord and be open to discussions about how the adjustments can be made.
5. Apply to VCAT: If necessary, use the VCAT to resolve disputes over reasonable adjustments.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need further assistance, contact Consumer Affairs Victoria for guidance on renting rights, or reach out to community legal centres that offer tenancy advice and support.

---

In summary, renters in Victoria have rights to request disability access adjustments under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997. Understand your needs, communicate effectively with your landlord, and take advantage of available resources to ensure your home is accessible and comfortable.

For support, remember that community legal centres and VCAT are invaluable resources in advocating for your rights as a renter with a disability.

---

1. Residential Tenancies Act 1997: [Victorian Legislation](https://www.legislation.vic.gov.au/in-force/acts/residential-tenancies-act-1997/101)
2. VCAT Tenant Discrimination Application Form: [VCAT](https://www.vcat.vic.gov.au/sites/default/files/resources/app-tenant-discrimination.doc)
3. Consumer Affairs Victoria: [CAV](https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/housing/renting)

Categories

General Tenant Rights & Protections Tenancy Agreements & Renewals Rent, Bond & Holding Deposits Moving In & Condition Reports Ending a Tenancy & Moving Out Repairs, Maintenance & Urgent Issues Minimum Standards & Habitability Evictions & Breach Notices Co-Tenancies, Subletting & Shared Housing Discrimination & Equal Housing Access Disability Access & Reasonable Adjustments Utilities, Water & Internet Billing Public, Community & Social Housing Rent Increases & Rent Controls Privacy & Landlord Entry Rules Locks, Keys & Security Obligations Resolving Disputes & Tribunal Processes Harassment, Threats & Landlord Misconduct Boarding Houses, Rooming Houses & Lodgers Caravan Parks & Residential Parks Bond Refunds & Claims Notice Periods & Tenancy Termination Entry Condition Breaches & Compensation Tenant Advocacy & Legal Aid