Rent bidding is now officially illegal in South Australia, with laws coming into effect from today, 1 September 2023.
Fines of up to $20,000 will be issued to landlords or agents caught soliciting a higher rental bid.
The State Labor Government has banned the unfair practice as part of a series of reforms addressing rental affordability and improving rights for tenants.
Local landlords or agents must now advertise premises at a fixed amount and must not solicit or otherwise invite an offer for higher rent.
This means they are no longer able to advertise properties with a rent range, put properties up for rent auction, or solicit offers over the advertised rental price.
Additionally, where a third party is facilitating tenancy applications, any rating or assessment of a prospective tenant must not be based on an offer of higher rent.
This significant reform brings South Australia in line with other Australian jurisdictions.
