This research provides a critical analysis of the Australian private rental vacancy rate (RVR) – an important housing market signal. It investigates the different methodologies, strengths and limitations of the measure, and how it is used and interpreted. This research presents a detailed examination of RVR to better inform decision-making in public and private sectors.

The 11th annual index compares rents and incomes across Australia to show where households face the greatest stress. It finds that rental affordability has finally stabilised in parts of the country after years of steep decline. However, pressures remain high, especially for people on low and moderate incomes.

This report examines affordability of rental properties for Australians who earn the lowest incomes, people on Commonwealth income support and minimum wage earners. Surveying the rental market for sixteen essential occupations, the report determines how many rental listings they could afford. It finds affordability was worst for early childhood educators, hospitality workers and meat packers.

This report finds that tenants are still at risk from faulty gas, electrical and smoke alarms despite stronger rules for mandatory safety checks in Victoria. The report calls for practical, low-cost reforms to strengthen renter safety and support compliance. It provides four recommendations.

This report assesses the two-year progress on the Australian Government's 'Better Deal for Renters'. It reveals that most governments have failed to deliver meaningful reforms. It calls for Commonwealth leadership and national consistency to harmonise rental regulations in Australia as a key area of law reform to ensure renters have access to safe, affordable and...