Renters in Australia continue to face inconsistent tenancy laws and an ongoing lack of protection. This report assesses the progress of State and Territories against their commitments of the National Cabinet reforms. It found inconsistent application of 'A Better Deal for Renters' and that some jurisdictions have failed to meet their obligations. The report also recommends areas requiring attention including the need for fair rent increases and capping the amount of the increases, adequately funding tenancy advice and advocacy services, and better data to inform policy.

The report illustrates that there have been improvements in banning rent bidding, provisions for tenants experiencing domestic and family violence, and restricting rent increases to once per year. However considerably more work is needed in the areas of limiting break lease fees for fixed term agreements, making rental applications easier and protecting renters’ personal information, better regulation of short-term accommodation, and phasing in of minimum rental standards.

The report also finds that some jurisdictions, particularly the Northern Territory and Western Australia, are failing to meet their National Cabinet obligations meaning they are failing to meet the needs of renters and reforms are urgently required.