Three estate agencies have been fined for breaking the state’s renting laws by failing to advertise properties with a fixed rental price.

Following an investigation by Consumer Affairs Victoria’s Renting Taskforce, Hocking Stuart (Frankston) Pty Ltd (trading as Fosterfroling Real Estate) was fined $11,855, and Leader Properties Pty Ltd (trading as Leader Real Estate Agency) and Hudson Bond, were each fined $7,500.

Fixed price advertising means renters can be sure about how much a home will cost, and not have to bid with others to secure the property.

Rental reforms introduced in 2021 mandated fixed price advertising, and barred providers or their agents from encouraging higher offers. Since November last year, it has been unlawful to accept any offer of higher rent.

Other reforms aimed at strengthening protections for renters include:

• requiring properties to meet minimum standards before they are advertised
• ending no-fault eviction by requiring property providers to have a valid reason to ask renters to leave; and
• increasing notice periods for rent increases and some notices to vacate.

Whether you’re a renter or a rental provider, learn how renting laws affect you. Get to know the fundarentals.