Queensland Housing Minister Meaghan Scanlon says some landlords are ending leases in order to skirt laws introduced earlier this year to stop rent hikes.
Ms Scanlon said on Thursday landlords were attempting to raise rents despite a new annual cap.
“Earlier this year, laws were passed to limit rent increases to once per year to assist in stabilising rents,” she said.
“However, reports have emerged of some landlords and agents ending leases with tenants in order to increase rents more frequently than once per year.”
The legislation, aimed at giving renters a “fair go”, came into effect for all new and existing tenancies on July 1.
Previously, landlords were allowed under law to increase rents every six months.
The accusations come amid the release of a discussion paper aimed at ensuring the new rules are adhered to.
It follows a roundtable with peak bodies and landlords hosted by Ms Scanlon to discuss reports of some landlords not renewing tenancies.
She said the paper considers tying limits to rental increases to a property rather than individual tenancies, if feedback indicates it is necessary.
“I want to ensure that the original intent of our laws is respected,” Ms Scanlon said.
“Not everyone is engaging in these tactics, and I want to acknowledge that the vast majority of agents and landlords do the right thing.
“Our reforms seek to stabilise rents which will help ensure affordability and certainty for renters in a way that also takes into account the pressures some landlords are facing.
“We’re rolling out more social and affordable housing while also providing immediate relief to those who need it, but some of the unscrupulous actions being taken by some are putting even more strain on a housing and rental market that’s feeling the impact of nationwide pressures.
“Queensland’s private rental market is a vitally important part of our overall housing mix, and I want to see that market thrive. That will happen when all players in the market act fairly and within the letter and spirit of the law.”
Consultation on the discussion paper closes next month.
Deputy Premier Steven Miles previously said the Queensland government was “taking immediate action” to support renters by passing the law.
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“For most households, rent would be the biggest single expense in their household budget,” he said.
“The majority of landlords do the right thing, but talking immediate action will protect Queensland renters from landlords who aren’t operating fairly.”
The amendments brought Queensland in line with other Australian states with similar laws, and also applied to rooming accommodation agreements.
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