Progress stalls on pet-friendly rental laws
Leaving Tasmanian pets and families in limbo
At Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania, we have been steadfast in our support for pet-friendly rental policies to address the heartbreaking rise in pet surrenders due to housing issues. However, recent delays in the proposed changes to Tasmania’s Residential Tenancy Act 1997 have left us deeply concerned about the welfare of pets and their families.
In June, the Tasmanian Government tabled the Residential Tenancy Amendment Bill 2024, fulfilling its election promise to improve renters’ rights to keep pets. The proposed changes would make it harder for landlords to unreasonably refuse tenants with pets, offering hope to families struggling to secure pet-friendly housing. Unfortunately, the Bill has stalled after a motion was passed in parliament calling for “further consultation with all stakeholders.”
No progress, no consultation
Months later, no meaningful consultation has occurred with key stakeholders, including Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania and other community organisations like the RSPCA, Shelter Tasmania, TasCOSS, and the Tenants’ Union of Tasmania.
We’re deeply concerned that the Government may consider amendments to the Bill that could undermine its original intent to protect renters and their pets. This delay comes at a time when the need for action is greater than ever. Rising housing pressures have forced more Tasmanians into the devastating position of surrendering their beloved pets. In May, 15% of the dogs surrendered to Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania were given up due to rental restrictions — a number that continues to climb.
Our letter to the Government
In response, Dogs’ Homes of Tasmania joined other leading organisations in writing to the Minister for Housing, Planning, and Consumer Affairs, calling for transparency and urgency in the consultation process. We have requested reassurances that the Government remains committed to delivering on its election promise and urged them to engage with the community sector, which understands the devastating impact these delays are having on Tasmanians and their pets.
We are yet to receive a response.
Proposed reforms to Tasmania’s rental laws were debated in Parliament this week but did not pass, with no decision made. The Bill now awaits further debate when Parliament reconvenes on 4 March 2025.
