Upcoming Changes for Victorian Property Managers: Launch of the Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) Service

ApexHR :Upcoming Changes for Victorian Property Managers: Launch of the Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) Service

Published: May 2025

Victorian property managers should prepare for a significant transformation in how rental disputes are handled, with the upcoming launch of the Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV) service. Officially going live in late June 2025, RDRV is set to streamline the resolution of common residential tenancy issues, offering an accessible, efficient, and cost-effective alternative to current processes.

What Is RDRV?

RDRV is a new, no-cost service operating under VCAT, designed to support renters and rental providers in resolving disputes related to:

      • Excessive rent increases
      • Repairs (both urgent and non-urgent)
      • Bond and/or compensation claims

The service promises less time, stress, and cost by encouraging early and informal resolution of issues. Each application will be case managed by a dedicated resolution coordinator, who serves as the primary point of contact throughout the case. These coordinators will be backed by experienced VCAT Members to ensure robust and fair outcomes.

Key Dates and Transition Timeline

    • From 19 May 2025: All bond and/or compensation applications must be submitted via the new RDRV portal (for those who have not set up as yet – you will be redirected to register from MyVCAT)
    • Late June 2025: Full launch of RDRV, with all new applications—including excessive rent increase and repair disputes—lodged exclusively via the portal.

While RDRV is being rolled out, RT Hub/VCAT Online will continue to operate for a transition period. This allows property managers to continue managing:

    • Non-RDRV case types, and
    • Rent increase notices, which will still be lodged through RT Hub/VCAT Online.

Important Notes for Property Managers

    • Notifications and orders will continue to be sent via email, similar to how they are through RT Hub/VCAT Online.
    • Both RDRV and RT Hub/VCAT Online will operate in parallel until all tenancy application types transition to the new system.
    • Non-RDRV matters will remain in the RT Hub/VCAT Online platform for the foreseeable future.
    • Rent increase notices must still be submitted through RT Hub/VCAT Online in line with existing practices.

Account Setup: What You Need to Know

All property managers will be required to set up a portal account to manage RDRV cases. There are three options for account structures:

  1. Individual Account: Suitable for managers who want to manage their own cases and receive individual notifications.
  2. Agency-Level Shared Account: Provides a unified view and central communication through a shared email login.
  3. Director/Primary-Level Account (Coming Soon): Offers individual case management but centralised visibility and control for agency leaders.

To establish agency-wide visibility, accounts may be linked manually under the same ABN. To initiate this process, email: RDRVsupport@courts.vic.gov.au.

Security and User Access

To meet security best practices, multi-factor authentication (MFA) will be required at every login. While this may take some getting used to, improvements are in development to streamline access over time.

Application Process and Fees

    • Submissions are free unless a matter proceeds to hearing.
    • Fees (if required) must be paid via credit card, as no payment data is stored in the portal.
    • After submission, a resolution coordinator will be assigned and will guide both parties.
    • Supporting evidence should be held until requested by the coordinator, as early resolution is encouraged.

Website Not Yet Live

While the portal will be central to the new system, the official RDRV website is not yet live. It is expected to go live in mid-June 2025, just prior to the full service rollout. Until then, all questions and setup queries can be directed to RDRVsupport@courts.vic.gov.au.

Take Action Now

    • Review which account model best suits your agency’s needs.
    • Prepare all staff for the shift beginning 19 May 2025 for compensation-related disputes.
    • Continue using RT Hub/VCAT Online for non-RDRV matters and rent increase notices.
    • Watch for updates in mid-June regarding the RDRV website launch.

By planning ahead, property managers can make a smooth transition to this improved dispute resolution process and deliver faster, more effective support to both renters and rental providers.