- Review finds residential parks laws largely fit for purpose, with opportunities for improvement
- Recommendations aim to improve clarity, compliance and dispute resolution
- Further consultation to help shape potential future reforms
A statutory review of Western Australia's residential parks tenancy laws has confirmed the legislation continues to provide a sound framework for the sector, while identifying opportunities to improve information, guidance and protections for tenants and park operators.
Under the Residential Parks (Longstay Tenants) Act 2006, a review is required every five years to assess the effectiveness of the legislation and determine whether further refinements are required.
The review, led by Consumer Protection at the Department of Local Government, Industry Regulation and Safety, was informed by extensive consultation. This included 24 written submissions, 267 survey responses and engagement with tenants, park operators, industry representatives and community stakeholders in Perth, Bunbury, Albany, Geraldton and Broome.
The review found the Act continues to provide an effective regulatory framework for residential parks. However, it also identified several opportunities to improve outcomes through clearer information, stronger engagement and better awareness of existing rights, responsibilities and dispute resolution pathways.
Findings identified that better-targeted information and guidance would help improve outcomes for tenants and operators by strengthening understanding of their rights and obligations, and by increasing awareness for tenants on the available avenues to raise concerns and resolve disputes, including via park liaison committees.
Key recommendations include improving disclosure information for prospective tenants, revising standard long-stay agreements, strengthening engagement between park operators and liaison committees, enhancing guidance on managing behavioural issues and establishing a public register of residential parks.
The review also recommends further consultation with stakeholders about options for amending the Act to provide clarity about arrangements when a fixed-term agreement ends, market rent reviews for agreements entered into before 31January 2022, mandatory timeframes for non-urgent repairs, alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, and alignment with upcoming reforms to the Residential Tenancies Act 1987.
Further information about the review, including details on how to subscribe to progress updates, can be found at: https://www.consumerprotection.wa.gov.au/residential-parks-law-review
As stated by Commerce Minister Dr Tony Buti:
"Residential parks play an important role in providing affordable and secure housing options for many Western Australians, and it is vital that the laws governing these arrangements remain clear, fair and effective.
"This review shows that while the current legislation is broadly working well, there are opportunities to strengthen guidance, improve disclosure and ensure tenants and operators better understand their rights and responsibilities.
"We will continue engaging with stakeholders on matters requiring further consideration, including fixed-term agreements and other potential reforms, to ensure the Act continues to meet the needs of the sector into the future."
