Database Laws in Queensland

On August 1 2003 changes to the Queensland Residential Tenancies Act took affect. The Queensland tenancy laws now include guidelines for the use of tenancy databases by Queensland real estate agents. These changes are designed to regulate the use of tenancy databases by the real estate industry. These new laws allow Referees in the Small Claims Tribunal to hear disputes between tenants and agents in relation to proposed or existing database listings. Up to 30% of Queenslanders rely on the private rental market for accommodation. Real estate agents that use tenancy databases generally refuse to rent accommodation to tenants who are listed on a tenancy database. The Tenants' Union hopes that the changes to the Residential Tenancies Act will assist tenants who have been unfairly listed on tenancy databases and will prevent tenants from being unfairly listed in the future. For more information click here.