About rent reductions
New laws have established the Residential Tenancies Dispute Resolution Scheme (RTDRS). The Scheme provides a free service, conducted by telephone, and is part of the plan to assist tenants obtain a meaningful rent reduction even if the landlord doesn’t agree.
The service has been designed to help people communicate more effectively and to ensure that a fair, reasonable and just agreement is reached. If parties are not being transparent or fair, Orders can be made that balance the interests, and consider the circumstances, of both parties to sustain the tenancy wherever possible.
Any “payment related matters” such as requests for rent reductions or issues relating to rent arrears must go through the Residential Tenancies Dispute Resolution Scheme.