A Victorian company that leases properties to NDIS recipients has agreed to pay $20,000 and complete a 3-year compliance program after it used unlawful rental agreements, allowing unlimited access to renters’ homes.
Lifeline Victoria Pty Ltd (ACN: 642 694 942), trading as Ability Allcare Services, made agreements with renters, including vulnerable NDIS participants, that did not comply with the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
Consumer Affairs Victoria (CAV) investigated the company following reports that its rental agreements included unlimited access to renters’ homes, while excluding mandatory requirements that protect renters.
CAV officers visited properties and spoke with renters as part of the investigation.
During the investigation, Lifeline Victoria admitted to not providing condition reports and other documentation at the start of certain tenancies.
Lifeline Victoria will now implement a 3-year compliance program to overhaul its practices.
The company’s staff, including Director Dhruv Chaudhari, must also undertake annual training to ensure they are equipped to run rental accommodation.
Under the enforceable undertaking, Lifeline Victoria must also:
CAV Director Nicole Rich said the outcome demonstrated the importance of protecting renters, particularly those in vulnerable circumstances.
'Renters have the right to privacy, and the alleged conduct in this case affected renters who may have been particularly vulnerable.'
'This outcome goes beyond a financial payment. It ensures that Lifeline Victoria's leadership and staff will have the appropriate skills and training to run rental accommodation for NDIS recipients in the future.'
Specialist disability accommodation is covered by Victoria’s renting laws and important rights and protections apply.
For more information about renting rules and rights, visit our Renting section.
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