Leanne Jopson , National Executive – Property Management
Starting 1 May, a new standardised tenancy application form is set to take centre stage in Queensland, but not everyone’s giving it a warm welcome.
The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has been ringing alarm bells, warning that the form might be more hindrance than help for rental applicants.
The new form, part of the State Government’s rental reform rollout, puts a major emphasis on privacy. While protecting personal information is undeniably important, the REIQ claims the form goes a step too far, potentially leaving tenants high and dry when it comes to actually securing a rental property.
Think about it – how often do we use identification in daily life? Whether it’s signing up for a library card, joining a gym, or renting a car, confirming your identity is standard practice.
According to REIQ CEO Antonia Mercorella, asking applicants to consider withholding ID for privacy reasons sets up unrealistic expectations and could jeopardise their chances of securing a rental.
Property managers are in a tough spot, too. With the form potentially discouraging applicants from providing essential ID, managers face the impossible task of safeguarding both their clients and renters without adequate verification.
And it’s not just about ticking boxes – VOI (verification of identity) is key for protecting all parties involved, whether it’s about preventing fraud or ensuring accountability.
Another eyebrow-raising issue is how co-applicants are expected to share a single form, which might lead to unintended privacy problems. It seems the standardised form is turning out to be far from one-size-fits-all.
The REIQ, despite initially supporting the idea of a unified approach, says that this version of the form is far from what they envisioned.
In fact, the REIQ is urging the government to rethink the form, calling out inconsistencies and impracticalities.
The organisation hopes that policymakers will consult with industry experts to create a form that balances privacy and practicality. As renters and property managers prepare for the changes, we hope for there are solutions that cater to everyone involved.
