Guide · updated November 2026
Disputing a bond claim in Victoria (and the new evidence rule)
Victoria changed the rules on 13 October 2026: a rental provider who wants bond money through VCAT now has to prove it. Here's what that means for you.
The new evidence rule
According to Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV), from 13 October 2026 a rental provider can't apply to VCAT for bond money unless they provide evidence with the application, the evidence supports the amount claimed, and it is consistent with the start-of-tenancy condition report. Evidence can be an invoice, receipt, quote or photograph. They can't rely on evidence that conflicts with the condition report.
Step by step
- A claim is made against your bond
The rental provider asks the RTBA to pay them part of your bond. Don't sign or agree to a split you think is unfair.
- Ask for their evidence
From 13 October 2026, a rental provider claiming bond money through VCAT must provide evidence (invoice, receipt, quote or photo) that supports the amount and is consistent with the entry condition report.
- Send your written reply
Respond item by item. Rental providers can only claim for damage — not fair wear and tear such as faded paint, worn carpet or minor scuffs from daily use.
- Apply to RDRV if you can't agree
Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (part of VCAT) handles bond disputes. Applying and reaching agreement through early resolution is free. Parties usually get 3 business days to reply; if no agreement after 14 days it goes to a hearing.
- Hearing (if needed)
A VCAT lodgement fee may apply if a hearing is requested. Bring your entry and exit condition reports, photos and receipts.
Fair wear and tear vs damage
RDRV is clear that rental providers can only claim for damage, not fair wear and tear — for example faded paint, worn carpets or minor scuffs from daily use are wear and tear; holes in walls, broken fixtures or stains from spills are damage.
| Area | Usually fair wear and tear | Usually damage |
|---|---|---|
| Carpet | Furniture indentations Traffic / worn paths General wear from daily use | Stains Burn marks |
| Walls & paint | Faded, chipped or cracked paint Paint worn near light switches Minor scuffs from daily use | Holes in walls Paint pulled off by blu-tack / tape posters Unapproved or poor-quality paint job |
| Wooden / hard floors | Scuffing from normal use | Bad scratches or gouges |
| Curtains & blinds | Faded curtains Frayed cords | Missing curtains Torn curtains |
| Kitchen benchtop | Worn benchtop surface | Burns Cuts |
| Doors & windows | Loose hinges or handles Worn sliding tracks | Broken glass Broken fixtures |
| Water stains | From a leaking roof or bad plumbing | From an overflowing bath From indoor pot plants Stains from spills |
Costs
RDRV's early resolution service is free if you reach agreement. A VCAT lodgement fee may apply if a hearing is requested.
Official sources: RDRV — bond disputes · RDRV — what to expect · myRDRV — apply · RTBA — rental bonds · VCAT fees
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Does my rental provider need evidence to claim my bond in Victoria?
From 13 October 2026, a rental provider applying to VCAT for bond money must provide evidence that supports the amount and is consistent with the entry condition report.
Where do I dispute a bond claim in Victoria?
Through Rental Dispute Resolution Victoria (RDRV), part of VCAT, via myRDRV. Early resolution is free; a VCAT fee may apply if it goes to a hearing.
Can they charge me for faded paint or worn carpet?
No — RDRV gives faded paint, worn carpets and minor scuffs from daily use as examples of fair wear and tear, which can't be claimed.