{"id":"sr:residential-tenancies-specialist-disability-accommodation-regulations-2019","name":"Residential Tenancies (Specialist Disability Accommodation) Regulations 2019","slug":"residential-tenancies-specialist-disability-accommodation-regulations-2019","collection":"regulation","jurisdiction":"vic","status":"in_force","isInForce":true,"actNumber":null,"makingDate":null,"administeringDepartment":null,"currentVersion":{"id":181623,"registerId":"vic-sr:residential-tenancies-specialist-disability-accommodation-regulations-2019-current","compilationNumber":null,"startDate":"2026-04-05","status":"InForce","reasons":null,"registeredAt":null},"sections":[{"sectionNumber":"1","sectionType":"section","heading":"Residential Tenancies (Specialist Disability Accommodation) Regulations 2019","content":"Version No. 003\n\n**Residential Tenancies (Specialist Disability Accommodation) Regulations 2019**\n\n**S.R. No. 72/2019**\n\nVersion incorporating amendments as at  \n10 February 2026\n\n**TABLE OF PROVISIONS**\n\n*Regulation Page*\n\n1 Objectives 1\n\n2 Authorising provision 1\n\n3 Commencement 1\n\n4 Definition 1\n\n5 SDA residency agreements to be in standard form 1\n\n6 Grounds for entry of SDA dwelling 2\n\nSchedule 1 3\n\n═════════════\n\nEndnotes 21\n\n1 General information 21\n\n2 Table of Amendments 23\n\n3 Explanatory details 24\n\n**Version No.** **003**\n\n**Residential Tenancies (Specialist Disability Accommodation) Regulations 2019**\n\n**S.R. No. 72/2019**\n\nVersion incorporating amendments as at  \n10 February 2026\n\n\t1 Objectives\n\nThe objectives of these Regulations are—\n\n(a) to prescribe a standard form SDA residency agreement for the purposes of Part 12A of the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997**; and\n\n(b) to prescribe compensation for loss of amenity for the purposes of Part 12A of that Act.\n\n\t2 Authorising provision\n\nThese Regulations are made under section 511 of the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997**.\n\n\t3 Commencement\n\nThese Regulations come into operation on 28 August 2019.\n\n\t4 Definition\n\nIn these Regulations—\n\n***the Act*** means the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997**.\n\n\t5 SDA residency agreements to be in standard form\n\nFor the purposes of section 498I of the Act, the prescribed standard form of an SDA residency agreement is the Form in Schedule 1.\n\nReg. 6 (Heading) amended by S.R. No. 47/2024 reg. 5.\n\n\t6 Grounds for entry of SDA dwelling\n\nFor the purposes of section 498V(3B) of the Act, the prescribed compensation for each SDA resident for each sales inspection is equal to one half of the daily amount paid for occupation of the room, or if the SDA resident is the sole occupant of the dwelling, one half of the daily amount paid for occupation of the dwelling.\n\n**Example**\n\nThe weekly rent for an SDA resident is $400. This is equal to rent per day of $57.10 (rounded). Compensation payable to the SDA resident equals one half of $57.10, which is $28.55 payable each day that there is an entry for a sales inspection. If there are multiple SDA residents in the dwelling, each resident must receive compensation.\n\nSch. 1 amended by S.R. Nos 47/2024 reg. 6, 6/2026 reg. 3.\n\nSchedule 1\n\nForm\n\n**Residential Tenancies Act 1997**\n\n(Section 498I)\n\n(Regulation 5)\n\nSDA RESIDENCY AGREEMENT\n\nThis Agreement is made on [*insert date*]\n\nAt [*insert place of Agreement*]\n\n**PARTIES**\n\nBETWEEN (SDA PROVIDER)\n\n[*insert name, ACN if SDA provider is a company, address*]\n\nwhose Agent is:\n\n[*insert name, address, ACN if company, of the agent*]\n\nAND (SDA RESIDENT)\n\n[*insert name*]\n\nDETAILS OF PERSON PROVIDING SUPPORT TO THE RESIDENT:\n\n[*insert name, address, and whether person is the SDA RESIDENT's guardian or SDA RESIDENT's administrator, family member, friend or carer; or if no person is chosen by the SDA RESIDENT, a person who the SDA PROVIDER considers can assist the SDA RESIDENT (and is not employed by, or is not a representative of, the SDA PROVIDER)*]\n\n| This Agreement is made by:<br>A. The SDA PROVIDER and SDA RESIDENT entering into the Agreement and both signing the Agreement.<br>OR<br>B. The SDA PROVIDER working with the SDA RESIDENT to establish the Agreement, and the SDA PROVIDER signing and dating the Agreement. |\n| --- |\n\n\n________________________________________________________\n\n**1. CONTACT DETAILS**\n\n(a) The SDA PROVIDER and SDA RESIDENT have inserted their contact details in Attachment 1 to this Agreement.\n\n(b) The SDA PROVIDER must attach a copy of Attachment 1 with updated contact details to this Agreement and give a copy to the SDA RESIDENT within 5 business days of any change in the contact details of the SDA PROVIDER or their agent.\n\n**2. ROOM AND FURNITURE IN SDA DWELLING**\n\nSDA DWELLING [*insert address of the SDA dwelling*]\n\nA. The SDA RESIDENT is the only resident in the SDA dwelling.\n\n[*If there are other residents, strike out A and complete the information about the Room in B.*]\n\nOR\n\nB. The SDA RESIDENT occupies the following Room in the SDA dwelling:\n\n[*Insert room number or other description/information that identifies the Room.*]\n\nThe SDA RESIDENT can use all common areas in the SDA dwelling except those specified below:\n\n[*Insert common areas that the SDA RESIDENT cannot use. If the SDA RESIDENT can use all common areas, leave this section blank.*]\n\nC. The SDA RESIDENT owns the furniture in the Room or SDA dwelling set out in Attachment 2.\n\n**3. LENGTH AND EXTENSION OF THIS AGREEMENT**\n\n(a) This Agreement starts on [*insert date*] and runs for a period of [*insert period*] until it ends on [*insert date*] (the end date).\n\n(b) Unless this Agreement is terminated in accordance with Part 12A of the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997**, it is taken to have been automatically extended from the end date for the same period, and it will continue to be automatically extended any number of times until terminated.\n\n**4. TERMINATING THIS AGREEMENT**\n\nThis Agreement can only be terminated in accordance with Part 12A of the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997**.\n\nA notice to vacate an SDA dwelling given by an SDA provider to an SDA resident must specify a termination date that is not less than 90 days after the date on which the notice is given.\n\n**Note**\n\nSee the Information Statement for further information.\n\n**5. RENT**\n\nThe SDA RESIDENT must pay rent to the SDA PROVIDER at the times and in the manner set out below. If this clause has been struck out, it must be paid at the times and in the manner set out in Attachment 3 to this Agreement.\n\nThe total rent is $\n\nSDA RESIDENT's maximum Reasonable Rent Contribution in the case of an SDA enrolled dwelling or a room in an SDA enrolled dwelling: $\n\nThe rent is paid [*tick one box and circle the day, or insert the day or date of each month*]\n\n🞏 each week on Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday\n\n🞏 each fortnight on the first Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/  \nThursday/Friday of the fortnight\n\n🞏 each month [*insert day or date of payment*]\n\nThe rent is paid by:\n\n| Centrepay | $ |\n| --- | --- |\n| Cash | $ |\n| Cheque | $ |\n| Electronic Funds Transfer<br>BSB No:……………….<br>Account No:……………….<br>Account name: | $ |\n| Direct Debit | $ |\n\n\nThe SDA provider (or Agent) must give a written receipt—\n\n(a) if the rent is paid in person, immediately; or\n\n(b) if the rent is not paid in person and a receipt is requested at the time the rent is paid, within 5 business days of receiving payment.\n\nIf, at any time after this agreement has been entered into, the SDA PROVIDER and SDA RESIDENT agree to change the times or manner in which rent is to be paid, they must strike out this clause and complete Attachment 3 to this Agreement. If further changes are made, copies of Attachment 3 must be attached to this Agreement.\n\n**6. RENT INCREASES**\n\n(a) The SDA PROVIDER must give the SDA RESIDENT a notice in writing of a proposed rent increase at least 90 days before the date on which the increased amount of rent is to be paid.\n\n(b) The SDA PROVIDER must complete Attachment 3 each time the rent is increased and attach it to this Agreement.\n\n**7. UTILITIES**\n\nThe SDA RESIDENT must pay for ordinary usage of the electricity, gas, water and any other utilities supplied.\n\n| *Utility* | *Usage* | *Amount to pay* | *Name of person or company SDA RESIDENT makes payment to* |\n| --- | --- | --- | --- |\n| Electricity |  |  |  |\n| Water |  |  |  |\n| Gas |  |  |  |\n| Other |  |  |  |\n\n\n**Note**\n\nSee Other Charges in the Information Statement.\n\n**8. CLEANLINESS OF THE ROOM AND SDA DWELLING**\n\nThe SDA PROVIDER must ensure that the Room or SDA dwelling is reasonably clean when this Agreement starts.\n\n**9. REPAIRS AND MAINTENANCE**\n\nGeneral Repairs and Maintenance\n\n(1) The SDA PROVIDER must ensure that the SDA dwelling is in a good state of repair and is appropriately maintained, having regard to the safety, security and privacy of the SDA RESIDENT.\n\n(2) The SDA RESIDENT may give a written notice to the SDA PROVIDER advising that repairs or maintenance are required to the SDA dwelling.\n\n(3) The SDA PROVIDER agrees to undertake the repairs or maintenance within 14 days after receiving the written notice.\n\nUrgent Repairs\n\n(4) The SDA RESIDENT may request the SDA PROVIDER to make urgent repairs to the SDA dwelling verbally or in writing.\n\n(5) The SDA PROVIDER agrees to undertake the urgent repairs as soon as possible after receiving the request.\n\n**Note**\n\nIf the SDA PROVIDER does not undertake the repairs and maintenance, or urgent repairs, the SDA RESIDENT may apply to the Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria or the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal for assistance. The SDA RESIDENT in this clause includes a \"chosen person\". A \"chosen person\" is defined in section 498O(2) of the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997**. (See Repairs and Maintenance in the Information Statement.)\n\n**10. DUTIES OF SDA PROVIDER**\n\nThe SDA PROVIDER must—\n\n(a) take reasonable measures to ensure that the SDA RESIDENT is treated with dignity and respect and with due regard to their entitlement to privacy; and\n\n(b) ensure that the SDA dwelling and any fixtures and fittings are maintained in good repair; and\n\n(c) not unreasonably interfere with the SDA RESIDENT's right to privacy; and\n\n(d) install fixtures required by the SDA RESIDENT to assist their daily living or proper use and enjoyment of the SDA dwelling; and\n\n(e) take reasonable measures to ensure the security of the SDA dwelling; and\n\n(f) minimise any inconvenience or disruption to the SDA RESIDENT when undertaking repairs or renovations to the SDA dwelling; and\n\n(g) take reasonable steps to ensure that any repairs or renovations to the SDA dwelling—\n\n(i) are carried out by a suitably qualified person; and\n\n(ii) are completed in a timely manner; and\n\n(h) not unreasonably refuse to give consent to the SDA RESIDENT's request to keep a pet in the SDA dwelling.\n\n**11. HOUSE RULES**\n\n(1) The SDA RESIDENT must comply with the House Rules for the SDA dwelling (if any) that are included in Attachment 4 of this Agreement.\n\nThe House Rules cannot take away any of the rights and duties included in Part 12A of the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997** or in the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013 of the Commonwealth.\n\n(2) The SDA PROVIDER must explain the contents of the House Rules (if any) to the SDA RESIDENT—\n\n(a) in the language, mode of communication and terms that the SDA RESIDENT is most likely to understand; and\n\n(b) both orally and in writing, where reasonable to do so.\n\n(3) The SDA PROVIDER may vary any House Rules from time to time.\n\n(4) If an SDA PROVIDER varies House Rules, the varied House Rules must clearly state the date on which they are to come into effect and on which they will replace the existing House Rules.\n\n(5) If the SDA PROVIDER varies the House Rules, the SDA PROVIDER must—\n\n(a) at least 14 days before the varied House Rules are to come into effect, give a written copy of the varied House Rules to the SDA RESIDENT and to any person providing support to the SDA RESIDENT listed in this agreement; and\n\n(b) explain the contents of the varied House Rules to the SDA RESIDENT—\n\n(i) in the language, mode of communication and terms that the SDA RESIDENT is most likely to understand; and\n\n(ii) both orally and in writing, where reasonable to do so.\n\n**12. DUTIES OF SDA RESIDENT**\n\nThe SDA RESIDENT must—\n\n(a) maintain the SDA dwelling in a manner that does not create a fire, health or safety hazard; and\n\n(b) after becoming aware of any damage to the SDA dwelling, give notice to the SDA PROVIDER specifying the nature of the damage; and\n\n(c) contribute to the cost of repairing damage notified under paragraph (b) to the SDA PROVIDER that the SDA RESIDENT caused; and\n\n(d) pay the rent on the due date and in the manner specified in this Agreement; and\n\n(e) not use the SDA dwelling for a purpose that is illegal at common law or under an Act; and\n\n(f) not by act or omission endanger the safety of other SDA RESIDENTS or staff at the SDA dwelling; and\n\n(g) not cause serious disruption to the proper use and enjoyment of the SDA dwelling by other SDA RESIDENTS; and\n\n(h) not damage or destroy any part of the SDA dwelling; and\n\n(i) not install any fixtures in the SDA dwelling without first obtaining the consent in writing of the SDA PROVIDER; and\n\n(j) not keep a pet without obtaining the consent of the SDA PROVIDER and any other SDA RESIDENTS living in the dwelling.\n\n**13. ENTRY TO THE ROOM OR DWELLING**\n\n(1) The SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent must not enter the Room or the SDA dwelling other than as provided in this clause.\n\n(2) The SDA RESIDENT agrees that the SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent (together with any other person the SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent needs to assist in carrying out the reasons for entering the SDA dwelling or Room) can enter the Room or SDA dwelling in accordance with this clause.\n\n(3) Entry Without Notice\n\nThe SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent (together with any other person the SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent needs to assist in carrying out the reasons for entering the SDA dwelling or Room) can enter the SDA dwelling and any Room without giving prior notice to the SDA RESIDENT in the following circumstances—\n\n(a) the SDA RESIDENT agrees to let the SDA PROVIDER enter the SDA dwelling or Room;\n\n(b) there is an emergency;\n\n(c) the SDA PROVIDER believes on reasonable grounds that they need to enter the SDA dwelling or Room to protect the health or safety of the SDA RESIDENT or any other person in the SDA dwelling or Room;\n\n(d) the SDA PROVIDER believes on reasonable grounds that the SDA RESIDENT has abandoned the SDA dwelling or Room;\n\n(e) the SDA PROVIDER needs to enter the SDA dwelling or Room to undertake urgent repairs.\n\n(4) Entry With Notice\n\nThe SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent can enter the SDA dwelling or Room (together with any other persons they need to assist them in carrying out the reasons for entering the SDA dwelling or Room) at any time between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. on any day other than a public holiday—\n\n(a) if they have given written notice to the SDA RESIDENT or SDA RESIDENTS before the entry; and\n\n(b) only for one of the following reasons—\n\n(i) to show the SDA dwelling or a Room to a person who wishes to become an SDA RESIDENT or renter, but only if the SDA PROVIDER has given 48 hours notice of entry and—\n\nA. before the SDA PROVIDER served the written notice, the SDA PROVIDER has given a notice to vacate to the SDA RESIDENT of that Room or SDA dwelling; or\n\nB. the SDA RESIDENT has given the SDA PROVIDER a notice of intention to vacate the Room or SDA dwelling;\n\n(ii) to show the SDA dwelling to a person who wishes to purchase the SDA dwelling and the SDA PROVIDER has given 48 hours notice of entry;\n\n(iii) to show the SDA dwelling to a person who seeks to use the SDA dwelling as security for a loan that they propose to make to the SDA PROVIDER and the SDA PROVIDER has given 48 hours notice of entry;\n\n(iv) to enable the SDA PROVIDER to carry out a duty that they have in relation to the SDA dwelling, the Room or the SDA RESIDENT under the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997** or any other Act and the SDA PROVIDER has given 24 hours notice of entry;\n\n(v) to allow the SDA dwelling to be the subject of a valuation and the SDA PROVIDER has given 7 days notice of entry;\n\n(vi) to carry out an inspection of the SDA dwelling or Room but only if the SDA PROVIDER has not entered and carried out an inspection within the last 6 months and given 7 days notice of entry. If the SDA RESIDENT has moved into the SDA dwelling for the first time, the inspection cannot occur until after the expiry of 3 months;\n\n(vii) to prepare for, organise or undertake maintenance or repairs and the SDA PROVIDER has given 24 hours notice of entry.\n\n(5) If entry is for the purpose of showing the Room or SDA dwelling to a person who wishes to become a resident (subclause (4)(b)(i)), then the SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent (together with any other person the SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent needs to assist in carrying out the reasons for entering the SDA dwelling or Room) can only enter the SDA dwelling or Room up to twice a week for a period of no longer than one hour (unless otherwise agreed with the SDA RESIDENT or SDA RESIDENTS) within 21 days before the termination date specified in the notice to vacate or notice of intention to vacate.\n\n(6) If entry is for the purpose of showing the SDA dwelling to a person who wishes to purchase the SDA dwelling (subclause (4)(b)(ii)), or to a person who seeks to use the SDA dwelling as security for a loan (subclause (4)(b)(iii)), then—\n\n(a) the SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent (together with any other person the SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent needs to assist in carrying out the reasons for entering the SDA dwelling or Room) can only enter the SDA dwelling or Room up to twice a week for a period of no longer than one hour (unless otherwise agreed with the SDA RESIDENT or SDA RESIDENTS); and\n\n(b) the SDA PROVIDER must notify the SDA RESIDENT or SDA RESIDENTS of the intention to sell in the approved form at least 14 days before entry; and\n\n(c) the SDA PROVIDER and the SDA RESIDENT will make reasonable efforts to agree to the days and times for the inspections.\n\n(7) Entry with Agreement\n\nThe SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent (together with any other person the SDA PROVIDER or the SDA PROVIDER's agent needs to assist in carrying out the reasons for entering the SDA dwelling or Room) can enter the SDA dwelling or Room at any time agreed with the SDA RESIDENT, provided that the SDA RESIDENT has agreed to the entry within the previous 7 days before the entry. If there is more than one SDA RESIDENT in the SDA dwelling, each SDA RESIDENT must have agreed to the entry within the previous 7 days.\n\n**Note**\n\nSee the Information Statement for further information.\n\n**14. RIGHT TO SEE A COMMUNITY VISITOR**\n\n(1) The SDA RESIDENT has the right to contact a community visitor through the Office of the Public Advocate to arrange for a community visitor to visit them in their Room or the SDA dwelling. The SDA PROVIDER must not prevent or interfere with the SDA RESIDENT contacting the community visitor or impede the entry of the community visitor.\n\n(2) The SDA RESIDENT may ask the SDA PROVIDER to arrange for a community visitor to visit the SDA dwelling. The SDA PROVIDER must advise the Community Visitors Board through the Office of the Public Advocate that a request has been made for a visit by a community visitor within 72 hours of the request being made by the SDA RESIDENT.\n\n**15. COMPLAINTS**\n\n(1) The SDA PROVIDER must have policies and procedures for responding to complaints by the SDA RESIDENT. The policies and procedures are set out in Attachment 5.\n\n(2) If the policies and procedures set out in Attachment 5 are updated, the SDA PROVIDER must give the SDA RESIDENT the updated version at least 14 days before they come into effect. The SDA RESIDENT can contact the SDA PROVIDER to—\n\n(a) request repairs or maintenance to the Room or the SDA dwelling; and\n\n(b) discuss any matter regarding their accommodation at the SDA dwelling; and\n\n(c) make a complaint about a dispute that the SDA RESIDENT has with another SDA RESIDENT.\n\n**16. CONSENT TO ELECTRONIC SERVICE OF NOTICES AND OTHER DOCUMENTS**\n\n(1) Express Consent\n\nThe SDA RESIDENT:\n\n(Check one box only)\n\n🞏 consents to the electronic service of notices and other documents in accordance with the requirements of the **Electronic Transactions (Victoria) Act 2000** at this email address—\n\n[*insert email address*]\n\nOR\n\n🞏 does not consent to the electronic service of notices and other documents.\n\nThe SDA PROVIDER:\n\n(Check one box only)\n\n🞏 consents to the electronic service of notices and other documents in accordance with the requirements of the **Electronic Transactions (Victoria) Act 2000** at this email address—\n\n[*insert email address*]\n\nOR\n\n🞏 does not consent to the electronic service of notices and other documents.\n\n(2) Inferred Consent\n\nIf the SDA RESIDENT or the SDA PROVIDER (as the case may be) has not consented to electronic service under subclause (1), the SDA RESIDENT or the SDA PROVIDER must not infer consent to electronic service from the receipt or response to emails or other electronic communications.\n\n(3) Change of Electronic Address\n\nThe SDA RESIDENT or the SDA PROVIDER must immediately give notice in writing to the other party if the email address for electronic service under subclause (1) changes.\n\n(4) Withdrawal of Consent\n\n(a) The SDA RESIDENT or the SDA PROVIDER may withdraw their consent under subclause (1) to electronic service of notices and other documents only by giving notice in writing to the other party.\n\n(b) Following the giving of notice under paragraph (a) no further notices or other documents are to be served by electronic communication.\n\n**17. PRIVACY**\n\nThe SDA PROVIDER must comply with all laws relevant to the personal and health information regarding the SDA RESIDENT that it holds, uses and shares with others as required.\n\n**18. ADDITIONAL TERMS**\n\nThe SDA RESIDENT and SDA PROVIDER may agree to additional terms in this Agreement. The additional terms are set out in Attachment 6. Additional terms cannot take away any of the rights and duties included in Part 12A of the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997** or in the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013 of the Commonwealth.\n\nAny additional terms must also comply with the Unfair contract terms under Part 2‑3 of the Australian Consumer Law (Victoria).\n\nContact Consumer Affairs Victoria on 1300 55 81 81 for further information or visit www.consumer.vic.gov.au.\n\n**19. RECORDS**\n\n(1) The SDA PROVIDER agrees to keep records of—\n\n(a) payments made for the occupation of the Room or SDA dwelling by the SDA RESIDENT; and\n\n(b) requests for repairs and maintenance and what the SDA PROVIDER did in response to each request; and\n\n(c) complaints made by the SDA RESIDENT and what the SDA PROVIDER did in response to each complaint; and\n\n(d) every visit by the Community Visitor to the SDA dwelling.\n\n(2) The SDA PROVIDER agrees to keep the record for 5 years after the record is made.\n\n(3) The SDA PROVIDER agrees to allow the SDA RESIDENT to inspect the records.\n\n**20. CONFLICT OF INTEREST**\n\nThe SDA PROVIDER has declared any conflict of interest in relation to other services provided to the SDA RESIDENT in Attachment 7 to this Agreement.\n\n**Note**\n\nA conflict of interest that must be declared includes any affiliation with a provider of daily independent living support services to the SDA RESIDENT.\n\n**21. COPIES OF THIS AGREEMENT—CHECKLIST**\n\n(1) The SDA PROVIDER must give a copy of this Agreement and the Information Statement to the SDA RESIDENT, and the SDA RESIDENT's guardian or SDA RESIDENT's administrator (if any).\n\nA copy of this Agreement and Information Statement has been given to the SDA RESIDENT 🞏\n\nA copy of this Agreement and Information Statement has been given to the SDA RESIDENT's guardian  \nor SDA RESIDENT's administrator 🞏\n\nA copy of this Agreement and Information Statement has been given to the SDA RESIDENT's guardian or SDA RESIDENT's administrator 🞏\n\n(2) The SDA PROVIDER agrees to give a copy of this Agreement and the Information Statement to the PERSON PROVIDING SUPPORT TO THE SDA RESIDENT (if any).\n\nA copy of this Agreement and the Information Statement has been given to the PERSON PROVIDING SUPPORT TO THE SDA RESIDENT 🞏\n\n(3) The SDA PROVIDER must give the Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria written notice within 14 days of this Agreement being entered into or established. The written notice must state the following details—\n\n(a) the name and contact details of the SDA PROVIDER;\n\n(b) the address of the SDA dwelling being provided under this Agreement;\n\n(c) the term of this Agreement.\n\nWritten notice of the Agreement has been given to the Director, Consumer Affairs Victoria 🞏\n\nIf at any time any part of this Agreement is amended, the SDA PROVIDER must give a new copy to the SDA RESIDENT, or the SDA RESIDENT's guardian or the SDA RESIDENT's administrator, or PERSON PROVIDING SUPPORT TO THE SDA RESIDENT, as the case may be, immediately.\n\nSIGNATURES AND DATES\n\n**Sign and Date either A or B**\n\nA. This Agreement is entered into by the SDA PROVIDER and SDA RESIDENT under section 498F(1)(a) of the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997**.\n\nThe SDA PROVIDER has explained the contents of the Agreement, and the contents of any Attachment to this Agreement, to the SDA RESIDENT—\n\n(a) in the language, mode of communication and terms the SDA RESIDENT is most likely to understand; and\n\n(b) the explanation of the Agreement was given both orally and in writing where reasonable.\n\n**SDA PROVIDER (or Agent)**\n\n[*insert signature of SDA PROVIDER or Agent*]\n\nDate: / /\n\n**SDA RESIDENT**\n\n[*insert signature of SDA RESIDENT*]\n\nDate: / /\n\nOR\n\nB. This Agreement is established between the SDA PROVIDER and SDA RESIDENT under section 498F(1)(b) of the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997**.\n\nThe SDA PROVIDER has explained the contents of the Agreement, and the contents of any Attachment to the Agreement, to the SDA RESIDENT—\n\n(a) in the language, mode of communication and terms the SDA RESIDENT is most likely to understand; and\n\n(b) the explanation of the Agreement was given both orally and in writing where reasonable.\n\n**SDA PROVIDER (or Agent)**\n\n[*insert signature of SDA PROVIDER or Agent*]\n\nDate: / /\n\nAttachment 1 Clause 1\n\n**CONTACT DETAILS**\n\n**Tables** (Insert extra Tables if extra contact details are necessary)\n\nContact details for SDA PROVIDER\n\n| Name |  |\n| --- | --- |\n| Phone:    Business hours<br>After hours |  |\n| Mobile |  |\n| Email |  |\n| Address |  |\n\n\nContact details for SDA PROVIDER's Agent (if any)\n\n| Name |  |\n| --- | --- |\n| Phone:    Business hours<br>After hours |  |\n| Mobile |  |\n| Email |  |\n| Address |  |\n\n\nContact details for SDA RESIDENT\n\n| Name |  |\n| --- | --- |\n| Phone:    Business hours<br>After hours |  |\n| Mobile |  |\n| Email |  |\n| Address |  |\n\n\nContact details for PERSON PROVIDING SUPPORT TO THE SDA RESIDENT\n\n| Name |  |\n| --- | --- |\n| Phone:    Business hours<br>After hours |  |\n| Mobile |  |\n| Email |  |\n| Address |  |\n\n\nAttachment 2 Clause 2\n\n**FURNISHINGS AND EQUIPMENT OWNED OR SUPPLIED BY THE SDA RESIDENT**\n\n[*List of furniture and equipment owned or supplied by the SDA RESIDENT e.g. bed, wardrobe, television, 2 chairs.*]\n\nAttachment 3 Clauses 5, 6\n\n**AGREED CHANGE TO TIMING OR MANNER OF PAYMENT OF RENT**\n\nThe SDA RESIDENT must pay rent to the SDA PROVIDER at the times and in the manner set out in this Attachment, which replaces Clause 5 of this Agreement.\n\nThe total rent is $\n\nSDA RESIDENT's maximum Reasonable Rent Contribution in the case of an SDA enrolled dwelling or a Room in an SDA enrolled dwelling: $\n\nThe rent is paid (*strike through the options that do not apply and circle the day, or insert the day or date of each month as appropriate*)\n\neach week on Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday\n\neach fortnight on the first\n\nMonday/Tuesday/Wednesday/Thursday/Friday of the fortnight\n\neach month [*insert day or date of payment*]\n\nThe rent is paid by:\n\n| Centrepay |  |\n| --- | --- |\n| Cash | $ |\n| Cheque | $ |\n| Electronic Funds Transfer<br>BSB No:……………….<br>Account No:……………………………<br>Account name: | $ |\n| Direct Debit | $ |\n\n\nThe SDA provider (or Agent) must give a written receipt—\n\n(a) if the rent is paid in person, immediately; or\n\n(b) if the rent is not paid in person and a receipt is requested at the time the rent is paid, within 5 business days of receiving payment.\n\n**SIGNED**\n\n**SDA PROVIDER (or Agent)**\n\n[*insert signature of SDA PROVIDER or Agent*]\n\nDate: / /\n\n**SDA RESIDENT (or Agent)**\n\n[*insert signature of SDA RESIDENT or Agent*]\n\nDate: / /\n\nAttachment 4 Clause 11\n\n**HOUSE RULES**\n\n[*Insert House Rules for the dwelling. If there are no House Rules insert \"no House Rules apply\".*]\n\nAttachment 5 Clause 15\n\n**COMPLAINTS**\n\n[*Insert SDA PROVIDER'S procedures for responding to complaints by SDA RESIDENTS.*]\n\nAttachment 6 Clause 18\n\n**ADDITIONAL TERMS**\n\n[*insert additional terms*]\n\nAttachment 7 Clause 20\n\n**CONFLICT OF INTEREST**\n\n[*insert any declared conflicts of interest*]\n\n═════════════\n\nEndnotes\n\n1 General information\n\nSee [www.legislation.vic.gov.au](http://www.legislation.vic.gov.au) for Victorian Bills, Acts and current Versions of legislation and up-to-date legislative information.\n\nThe Residential Tenancies (Specialist Disability Accommodation) Regulations 2019, S.R. No. 72/2019 were made on 27 August 2019 by the Governor in Council under section 511 of the **Residential Tenancies Act 1997**, No. 109/1997 and came into operation on 28 August 2019: regulation 3.\n\nThe Residential Tenancies (Specialist Disability Accommodation) Regulations 2019 will sunset 10 years after the day of making on 27 August 2029 (see section 5 of the **Subordinate Legislation Act 1994**).\n\nINTERPRETATION OF LEGISLATION ACT 1984 (ILA)\n\nStyle changes\n\nSection 54A of the ILA authorises the making of the style changes set out in Schedule 1 to that Act.\n\nReferences to ILA s. 39B\n\nSidenotes which cite ILA s. 39B refer to section 39B of the ILA which provides that where an undivided regulation, rule or clause of a Schedule is amended by the insertion of one or more subregulations, subrules or subclauses the original regulation, rule or clause becomes subregulation, subrule or subclause (1) and is amended by the insertion of the expression \"(1)\" at the beginning of the original regulation, rule or clause.\n\nInterpretation\n\nAs from 1 January 2001, amendments to section 36 of the ILA have the following effects:\n\n• Headings\n\nAll headings included in a Statutory Rule which is made on or after  \n1 January 2001 form part of that Statutory Rule. Any heading inserted in a Statutory Rule which was made before 1 January 2001, by a Statutory Rule made on or after 1 January 2001, forms part of that Statutory Rule.  \nThis includes headings to Parts, Divisions or Subdivisions in a Schedule; Orders; Parts into which an Order is divided; clauses; regulations; rules; items; tables; columns; examples; diagrams; notes or forms.  \nSee section 36(1A)(2A)(2B).\n\n• Examples, diagrams or notes\n\nAll examples, diagrams or notes included in a Statutory Rule which is made on or after 1 January 2001 form part of that Statutory Rule. Any examples, diagrams or notes inserted in a Statutory Rule which was made before 1 January 2001, by a Statutory Rule made on or after 1 January 2001, form part of that Statutory Rule. See section 36(3A).\n\n• Punctuation\n\nAll punctuation included in a Statutory Rule which is made on or after  \n1 January 2001 forms part of that Statutory Rule. Any punctuation inserted in a Statutory Rule which was made before 1 January 2001, by a Statutory Rule made on or after 1 January 2001, forms part of that Statutory Rule.  \nSee section 36(3B).\n\n• Provision numbers\n\nAll provision numbers included in a Statutory Rule form part of that Statutory Rule, whether inserted in the Statutory Rule before, on or after  \n1 January 2001. Provision numbers include regulation numbers, rule numbers, subregulation numbers, subrule numbers, paragraphs and subparagraphs. See section 36(3C).\n\n• Location of \"legislative items\"\n\nA \"legislative item\" is a penalty, an example or a note. As from 13 October 2004, a legislative item relating to a provision of a Statutory Rule is taken to be at the foot of that provision even if it is preceded or followed by another legislative item that relates to that provision. For example, if a penalty at the foot of a provision is followed by a note, both of these legislative items will be regarded as being at the foot of that provision. See section 36B.\n\n• Other material\n\nAny explanatory memorandum, table of provisions, endnotes, index and other material printed after the Endnotes does not form part of a Statutory Rule. See section 36(3)(3D)(3E).\n\n2 Table of Amendments\n\nThis publication incorporates amendments made to the Residential Tenancies (Specialist Disability Accommodation) Regulations 2019 by statutory rules, subordinate instruments and Acts.\n\n–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––\n\nResidential Tenancies (Specialist Disability Accommodation) Amendment Regulations 2024, S.R. No. 47/2024\n\n| *Date of Making:* | 18.6.24 |\n| --- | --- |\n| *Date of Commencement:* | 1.7.24: reg. 3 |\n\n\nResidential Tenancies (Specialist Disability Accommodation) Amendment Regulations 2026, S.R. No. 6/2026\n\n| *Date of Making:* | 10.2.26 |\n| --- | --- |\n| *Date of Commencement:* | 10.2.26 |\n\n\n–––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––––\n\n3 Explanatory details\n\nNo entries at date of publication.","sortOrder":0}],"analysis":{"flash_summary":{"complexity_score":4,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"The Regulations remain focused on their original, stated purpose: prescribing a standard SDA residency agreement form and prescribing compensation for sales inspections (Regulation 1). Amendments recorded (2024 and 2026) update and refine the form and wording (for example, changes to Schedule 1 and the heading or text of Regulation 6) but do not materially broaden the instrument beyond those core functions. Changes are refinements to mechanics and form content rather than an expansion of subject matter or policy scope."},"complexity_factors":["Relatively short instrument (6 regulations plus Schedule 1 standard form)","Schedule 1 is lengthy and prescriptive (standard form with 21 substantive clauses and 7 attachments)","Multiple conditional entry rules with different notice periods and frequency limits (48 hours, 24 hours, 7 days, 14 days, 90 days) in Schedule 1 clause 13","Cross-references to primary legislation and other Acts: Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Part 12A), National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013, Electronic Transactions (Victoria) Act 2000, Australian Consumer Law (Victoria)","Operational detail in the form (rent mechanics, receipts, record-keeping, community visitors, complaint procedures) increases practical complexity for providers","A small number of defined terms only (e.g. 'the Act') — low terminological complexity but moderate procedural complexity due to operational steps","Amendments incorporated (2024, 2026) but no large structural re-write — minor versioning complexity"],"plain_english_summary":"**What these Regulations do (mechanically)\n\n- Prescribe a single, mandatory template (a \"standard form\") for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) residency agreements. (Regulation 5; Schedule 1)\n- Set a formula for compensation to SDA residents when a provider enters the dwelling for a sales inspection: compensation equals one half of the daily occupation amount for the room (or, for a sole-occupant dwelling, one half of the daily amount for the whole dwelling). The compensation is payable for each day there is an entry for a sales inspection. (Regulation 6)\n\nWho is affected\n\n- SDA PROVIDERS (landlords/operators of Specialist Disability Accommodation): must use the prescribed agreement form, follow the entry rules, keep records, give notices (including a 14‑day notice to the Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria when an agreement is made), maintain the premises, comply with privacy laws, explain house rules, and observe other duties in the form (see Schedule 1). (Regulation 5; Schedule 1 clauses 1–21)\n- SDA RESIDENTS (people living in SDA): have rights and responsibilities set out in the standard form — including protections around entry to their room/dwelling, repairs, privacy, complaints processes, access to community visitors, and rent rules. Residents receive the prescribed compensation for sales‑inspection entries. (Regulation 6; Schedule 1 clauses 3, 4, 9, 11, 13, 14, 15)\n- OTHER PARTIES: agents of providers, people providing support to residents, the Director of Consumer Affairs Victoria (notification requirement), and the Community Visitors Board/Office of the Public Advocate (community visitor interactions) are brought into the mechanics of the agreement. (Schedule 1 clauses 1, 14, 21)\n\nWhy it matters (practical consequences)\n\n- Standardisation: All SDA providers must offer the same prescribed agreement form (Schedule 1). That reduces variation in contract terms and ensures specific protections and administrative steps are present in every agreement. (Regulation 5)\n- Entry and inspection rules: The Schedule sets a regime of permitted entries without notice (emergencies, urgent repairs, abandonment, resident consent) and a range of entries with specified notice periods (24 hours, 48 hours, 7 days) and limits on frequency and duration for sales or re‑letting inspections. This defines when providers can lawfully enter and when residents are entitled to compensation for sales inspections. (Schedule 1 clause 13; Regulation 6)\n- Compensation on sales inspections: Providers must pay each affected resident half the daily occupation amount for each day there is a sales inspection. This creates a direct cash cost for each inspection day. (Regulation 6)\n- Administrative and compliance requirements: Providers must keep records for 5 years (payments, repairs, complaints, community visitor visits), notify Consumer Affairs Victoria of each agreement within 14 days, and follow specified notice timing for rent increases and agreement termination. These create ongoing administrative tasks for providers. (Schedule 1 clauses 5, 6, 19, 21)\n- Interaction with other laws: The standard form cannot remove rights under Part 12A of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 or the Commonwealth National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013. Additional terms must also comply with unfair contract terms law. (Schedule 1 clauses 11(1), 18)\n\nOfficial purpose-claim and a brief test of trade-offs\n\n- Officially the Regulations \"prescribe a standard form\" and \"prescribe compensation for loss of amenity\" for SDA tenancies (Regulation 1). That is implemented by (a) mandating the Schedule 1 form and (b) setting the compensation formula in Regulation 6.\n\n- Costs and incentives: The Regulations transfer predictable, concrete costs to providers for sales inspections (half a resident's daily rent per inspection day). Providers therefore face an incentive to limit the frequency and duration of inspections or to absorb the cost (which may be reflected in overall pricing). The standard form reduces providers' freedom to vary contract terms, creating uplift in compliance for providers that previously used bespoke agreements. (Schedule 1; Regulation 6)\n\n- Implementation/administration risk and compliance burden: Providers bear record‑keeping (5 years) and notification duties (14 days to Director), plus the operational rules on entry and notice periods. Smaller providers may face relatively higher administrative costs. Failure to follow entry rules, notice periods, or the prescribed form could expose providers to dispute resolution via Consumer Affairs Victoria or the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (referenced in Schedule 1 notes). (Schedule 1 clauses 13, 19, 21)\n\n- Effects on private choice and market behaviour: Standardisation reduces contract variation and transaction costs for residents who move between providers, but it also reduces providers' contract design flexibility. Providers may adjust rents, service levels, or the decision to supply SDA to reflect the added costs or constrained practices (e.g. fewer open‑house inspections). The Regulations do not set rent levels but require 90 days' notice for termination and 90 days' notice for proposed rent increases, which constrains short‑term changes. (Schedule 1 clauses 4, 6)\n\n- Concentrated benefits and diffuse costs: Residents receive clearer, uniform protections (concentrated benefit to residents), while providers absorb compliance and compensation costs (diffuse across providers and ultimately possibly reflected in rent or service choices). The notification and record requirements create an observable paper trail that supports enforcement but also increases providers' administrative work. (Schedule 1 clauses 5, 6, 13, 19, 21)\n\nKey operational points to watch (implementation details)\n\n- Multiple notice periods and conditional entry routes: the Schedule prescribes different notice windows depending on the reason for entry (7 days for valuations/inspections that haven’t occurred in 6 months; 48 hours for showings when there is a notice to vacate; 24 hours for many maintenance activities). Providers must apply the correct notice period for each entry reason. (Schedule 1 clause 13)\n- Compensation arithmetic: compensation is calculated per day and per resident for sales inspections (Regulation 6 and example). Providers must track daily occupation amounts and pay each affected resident separately when there are multiple occupants. (Regulation 6)\n- Interaction with other statutory regimes: the form preserves rights under the Residential Tenancies Act and the NDIS Act and subjects additional terms to unfair contract term rules, which constrains what providers can lawfully add. (Schedule 1 clauses 11(1), 18)\n- Record retention and reporting: providers must keep and allow inspection of records for 5 years and notify Consumer Affairs Victoria within 14 days when an agreement is made. (Schedule 1 clause 19; clause 21)\n\nSource references: Regulation 1 (objectives); Regulation 5 and Schedule 1 (standard form); Regulation 6 (compensation for sales inspections); Schedule 1 clauses 1–21 (contract mechanics, duties, entry, records, complaints, notices)."},"flash_summary_failed":{"failed":true,"reason":"A positive credit balance is required for all requests, including BYOK, so fallback providers remain available. Add credits at https://vercel.com/d?to=%2F%5Bteam%5D%2F%7E%2Fai%3Fmodal%3Dtop-up to continue.","source":"analysis-cron"},"issue_detection":{"absurdities":[],"contradictions":[]},"kimi_summary":{"content_quality":"ok","complexity_score":4,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"The legislation remains tightly focused on its original purpose: creating a standard form agreement for SDA tenancies and setting compensation for sales inspections. The 2024 and 2026 amendments appear to be minor technical updates (updating the form and entry provisions) rather than scope expansion. The regulations have not grown beyond the original intent of implementing Part 12A of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997."},"complexity_factors":["Length is moderate (21 pages) but mostly comprised of a fillable form template rather than dense regulatory text","Only 1 defined term ('the Act') in the regulatory provisions, though the Schedule form contains many defined roles (SDA PROVIDER, SDA RESIDENT, etc.)","Heavy cross-referencing to Part 12A of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 and the National Disability Insurance Scheme Act 2013 (Cth)","Multiple notice periods to track (90 days for termination/rent increase, 48 hours for inspections, 24 hours for repairs, 7 days for valuations, 14 days for house rule changes)","Conditional logic in the form (mutually exclusive options A/B for sole occupancy vs shared, different signature paths for residents who can/cannot sign)","7 mandatory attachments required for complete agreements","Nested conditions for entry rights (different rules for sales inspections vs maintenance vs emergencies)","Interaction with Commonwealth NDIS legislation creates dual regulatory framework complexity"],"plain_english_summary":"This legislation creates a standard tenancy agreement for people with disability who live in Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) in Victoria. SDA is housing designed for people who need specialist housing solutions due to extreme functional impairment or very high support needs.\n\n**What it does:**\n- **Sets a mandatory contract template** (Schedule 1) that all SDA providers must use when renting to SDA residents. This ensures residents get consistent, fair terms regardless of which provider they use.\n- **Protects residents' rights** by requiring providers to:\n  - Treat residents with dignity and respect\n  - Give 90 days notice for rent increases and termination\n  - Pay compensation (half a day's rent) when entering for sales inspections\n  - Allow community visitors to check on residents\n  - Maintain the property and do urgent repairs quickly\n  - Explain house rules in accessible ways\n- **Limits entry** to the dwelling with specific notice periods (24 hours to 7 days depending on the reason) and requires compensation for sales inspections.\n- **Requires record-keeping** of payments, repairs, complaints, and community visitor visits for 5 years.\n\n**Who it affects:**\n- **SDA residents**: People with disability living in specialist accommodation (often funded through the NDIS)\n- **SDA providers**: Companies or organisations that own and manage specialist disability housing\n- **Support persons**: Family, guardians, or advocates who help residents understand and negotiate the agreement\n\n**Why it matters:**\nBefore these regulations, people in SDA often had inconsistent or unfair tenancy terms. This legislation ensures they have the same protections as other renters in Victoria, plus extra safeguards given their vulnerability. It prevents providers from using complex legal language to exploit residents and ensures transparency around rent, repairs, and privacy."},"summary":{"complexity_score":6,"scope_assessment":{"changed":false,"description":"Based on the available information, the regulation appears to remain targeted at its original purpose: creating a specialist tenancy framework for SDA residents in Victoria. There is no evidence in the provided text of scope creep beyond the original intent, though the consolidation history suggests refinements have been made over time."},"complexity_factors":["Intersects two distinct legal frameworks: state residential tenancy law and the federal NDIS scheme","Applies to a specific and vulnerable cohort with unique living arrangements not contemplated by standard tenancy law","Three-way legal relationship between resident, SDA provider/landlord, and NDIS support provider adds complexity","Tenancy rights are intertwined with NDIS funding eligibility and plan decisions, which are outside state jurisdiction","The document provided is incomplete — only version history metadata is visible, making full analysis impossible","Consolidation history suggests amendments have been made, requiring comparison of versions to understand current obligations","Overlaps with Commonwealth disability discrimination law and NDIS Practice Standards"],"plain_english_summary":"This Victorian regulation creates a tailored tenancy framework for Specialist Disability Accommodation (SDA) — NDIS-funded, purpose-built or modified housing for people with very high support needs. It governs the rights and obligations of SDA residents, landlords/owners, housing managers and support providers, recognising relationships and supports (like 24/7 care) that differ from ordinary rentals. Note: the supplied file appears to be a metadata/version history shell; the operative provisions are not visible."}},"importantCases":[],"_links":{"self":"/api/acts/residential-tenancies-specialist-disability-accommodation-regulations-2019","history":"/api/acts/residential-tenancies-specialist-disability-accommodation-regulations-2019/history","analysis":"/api/acts/residential-tenancies-specialist-disability-accommodation-regulations-2019/analysis","conflicts":"/api/acts/residential-tenancies-specialist-disability-accommodation-regulations-2019/conflicts","importantCases":"/api/acts/residential-tenancies-specialist-disability-accommodation-regulations-2019/important-cases","documents":"/api/acts/residential-tenancies-specialist-disability-accommodation-regulations-2019/documents"}}