I have seen my loved ones suffer at the hands of predatory real estate agents exploiting loopholes in outdated laws. These agents are forcing tenants to use RentTech apps like Ailo, Rental Rewards, or Simple Rent for rental payments, often accompanied by unreasonable fees. This practice is especially distressing during the current housing crisis when many are struggling to make ends meet.

Australia needs legislation in each state that clearly states landlords and real estate agents must offer reasonable fee-free payment options for rental payments, such as Direct Debit or direct Bank Deposits. In a 2019 survey by Apartment List, 60% of renters reported experiencing some form of financial insecurity due to high rental costs (source: Apartment List). Adding additional fees through mandated payment apps only exacerbates this issue. In the case of Ray White and the Ailo app, the app was created by former Ray White staff and family members, so it appears the family is profiting off forcing desperate renters onto the app. 

In addition to concerns with fees, there are many legitimate concerns about the security of personal and banking details being secured by these apps. Many tenants have experienced data breaches from large companies such as Optus, Latitude and Medibank and are rightly hesitant to hand over personal and financial details to yet another third party provider.

This is not just about protecting renters' rights; it's about ensuring fairness and justice in our housing system. We cannot allow these predatory practices to continue unchallenged. Therefore, we call upon our Federal Government and state legislators to enact laws that protect tenants from being forced into using specific payment methods that carry additional costs.

Choice has outlined many issues with these types of apps, and concerns renters have in using them.

Please sign this petition and help us ensure fair treatment for all renters across our state.