The inability to buy/sell/ rent property in Melbourne is creating enormous emotional and financial distress in the community. The Premier and his government have not taken the time to understand the impact of a complete lockdown of the property market on ordinary Victorians. There is no dispute that the health and safety of the community is a priority, and the roadmap out of the lockdown must ensure the safety of all Victorians. However, the very long path proposed by the Andrews Government jeopardises livelihoods and assets of hard-working Victorians who have abided by the rules and restrictions for over eighteen months.

The financial and emotional stress of losing deposits, defaulting on contracts, not being able to secure appropriate living arrangements is leaving families in distress and endangering lives. Locking Victorians out of the real estate market is not the answer.

Send your message to the Premier

People impacted by the lock out should consider writing to the Premier directly.

  • - Share examples of the impact that the inability to buy/sell/rent is having on Victorians
    - Demonstrate how inspections can be completed safely
    ​- Urge the government to include real estate businesses in the financial support being offered to business

     Contact the Premier

Private inspections can be safe

The REIV on behalf of the real estate sector and concerned Victorians calls on the Premier to allow one-on-one inspections now. Private inspections can be conducted safely with measures such as:

- inspection by prior appointment only
- maximum two adults and one real estate agent/representative;
- declaration that attendees have not visited a Tier One or Tier Two exposure site in the 14 days prior;
- prior approval from any occupants;
- 15-minute appointment blocks, with time allowed either side for cleaning.
- masks required, unless an exemption applies;
- disinfection and cleaning before and after inspection;
- no touching of surfaces during the inspection; and
- QR code and paper record-keeping for contact tracers.

Financial support for the sector

The real estate sector has been unfairly excluded from government financial support.

Victorian real estate professionals have been instrumental in implementing government policies over this difficult period. Property Managers have negotiated rental waivers and discounts, mediated between owners and renters, managed issues related to eviction moratoriums – all the while ensuring health and safety of all parties involved. Excluding the sector from financial support is unfair and unjustified.

COVID-19 Vaccination


The REIV encourages all real estate professionals to vaccinate.


 

Latest news from the REIV

REIA Media Release

March 20 2020

A message to tenants form REIA president, Adrian Kelly

Continue Reading

REIV works with Government to assist landlords and tenants through these tough times

March 19 2020

The Real Estate Institute of Victoria acknowledges that real estate agents, landlords and tenants, vendors and buyers, are all concerned about the impact of coronavirus.

Continue Reading

Training at the REIV – Impact of Coronavirus

March 17 2020

The REIV leadership team is monitoring the evolving situation and setting up appropriate responses as required. The information provided below will be updated as necessary.

Continue Reading