14Reduction of rent and relief from conditions

14 Reduction of rent and relief from conditions

Lessee may apply for rent reduction or relief (1) A lessee (the applicant) may apply to the Minister for one or more of the following: (a) a reduction (including to nil) of the rent payable under the lease; (b) relief from compliance, completely or partly, with any other provision to which the applicant’s lease is subject. (2) The application must be in writing and must specify the following: (a) the lease that is the subject of the application; (b) the amount of the reduction (if any) in the rent sought by the applicant; (c) any other provisions of the lease from which applicant seeks relief, and the nature of the relief sought. (3) The application must be accompanied by the prescribed fee (if any). Decision on application (4) On an application, the Minister must do one of the following: (a) approve the application on the terms sought by the applicant; (b) approve the application on terms different from those sought by the applicant; (c) refuse the application. (5) In considering an application, the Minister must have regard to: (a) all information provided in relation to the application; and (b) any other matter the Minister considers relevant. Terms and effect of approval (6) The Minister’s approval under paragraph (4)(a) or (b) may be given subject to conditions. (7) If the Minister approves a reduction or relief under paragraph (4)(a) or (b), the liability or obligation of the applicant is discharged for the period approved, to the extent of the reduction or relief approved.