The Retail Leases Act

Retail leases in Victoria, Australia, are subject to the Retail Leases Act.

The most current version of the Retail Leases Act is from 2003. It replaced the Retail Tenancies Act 1986 and the Retail Tenancies Reform Act 1998. The act covers the leases of retail premises in Victoria, Australia.

Definition of Retail Premises

The Retail Leases Act defines retail premises as a location of a business used for the sale or renting of goods or services where the cost of the lease is less than $1 million a year. It specifically excludes wholesalers, manufacturers and warehouses. It also excludes corporations.

Disclosure

Landlords must disclose certain information under the Retail Leases Act. The disclosed information must include the rent amount, other costs borne by the tenant and the tenant's responsibilities.

Unconscionable Conduct.

The Retail Leases Act protects both landlords and tenants from what it terms unconscionable conduct. Specifically it protects against damaged or demolished premises, and unfair negotiating tactics by the landlords.

References

• Office of the Victorian Small Business Commissioner: The Retail Leases Act 2003
• Fair Trading: Retail Tenancy