I am a first-time investor facing significant hardship from tenants exploiting Victoria's tenancy laws and VCAT processes. Our South Morang investment property has had zero rent since May 2025, with rental arrears exceeding $25,000. Despite over 13 VCAT hearings and repeated

delays, we finally managed to get these individuals removed on January 15 this year. However, we are now left with a trashed property that I have to repair at my own cost, while the tenants, who were drug users, have no means to pay for the damages they caused.

The loopholes in Victoria's current tenancy system have left landlords like myself vulnerable and financially burdened. It's disheartening and unfair that even after a drawn-out legal process, property owners are left without support or compensation for the tremendous losses inflicted upon them. These laws, while intended to protect tenants, have inadvertently enabled some to exploit the system, causing undue stress and financial damage to landlords.

This is not an isolated issue. Many landlords across Victoria find themselves in similar situations, grappling with a system that inadequately safeguards their interests. The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) must reform its processes to ensure fair and balanced outcomes for both tenants and landlords.

We urge the Victorian government to review and amend tenancy laws to prevent exploitation and ensure timely and fair resolution of disputes. This includes stricter measures for non-compliant tenants, expedited hearings for cases involving severe financial hardship, and clearer guidelines for property damage accountability.

By signing this petition, you are supporting a call for necessary changes in Victoria's tenancy system to prevent landlords from enduring prolonged financial losses and emotional distress. Please join us in calling on policymakers to take immediate action and protect the rights of Victorian investors and property owners.