Ending ‘No Grounds’ Evictions Vital for Rental Law Reform

By Jeff Gibbs

Supporting renters and improving renting conditions stands as one of the core pillars of Shelter NSW’s NSW State Election platform. The organization expresses satisfaction and relief at the commitment from all major political parties to ban No Ground Evictions. However, they acknowledge the existence of potential loopholes that could be exploited, necessitating further action.

1. Shelter NSW’s State Election platform prioritizes support for renters and renting conditions, advocating for signifcant reforms in the rental market.

2. While pleased with the commitment from major parties to ban No Ground Evictions, Shelter NSW highlights potential loopholes in the legislation, particularly concerning fxed-term leases, necessitating further action.

3. Shelter NSW calls for the replacement of No Grounds Evictions with a comprehensive set of specifed reasonable grounds applicable to all lease types, aiming to ensure fairness and stability for renters across NSW.

The ban on no-grounds evictions for periodic leases is deemed a signifcant step forward in enhancing the lives of renters in NSW. Shelter NSW believes it will alleviate the pressure in a rental market currently plagued by what they perceive as an unfair frenzy. Nevertheless, they assert the need for additional safeguards, particularly as the cross-party commitment excludes fxed-term leases. Tenant advocates have observed a notable increase in the use of fxed-term leases by landlords, which expedite the rent rise cycle.

Shelter NSW advocates for the replacement of No Grounds Evictions with a comprehensive set of specifed reasonable grounds, applicable across all types of leases. They argue that such a reform is essential to ensure fairness and stability for renters in NSW.

The push for rental reform has long been championed by various organizations and allies, with special recognition extended to the Tenants Union of NSW for their invaluable guidance and expertise throughout the advocacy process.