Coronavirus (COVID-19) update No.10

Tuesday 5 May, 2020

This is my latest update to provide you with information about the impact of Coronavirus (COVID-19) on our community.

The NSW government has now announced a six-month freeze on evictions of residential tenants who can’t pay their rent because of the financial impact of COVID-19.

This moratorium means that landlords or their managing agents are obligated to negotiate rental payment arrangements in good faith with struggling households that have seen their income fall by 25 per cent or more.

While residential tenants are now protected from eviction during this time, any unpaid rent will still be owed in the future unless the landlord agrees to waive or reduce the rental arrears.

Owners will be granted land tax exemptions by the NSW government and are being encouraged to speak with their lender about a mortgage freeze or reduced repayments as part of the rent negotiation discussions with their tenant.

All tenants who aren’t impacted by COVID-19 are still expected to pay their rent and charges in full.

Please see the Fair Trading website for more information or contact Fair Trading directly on 13 32 20 for further assistance:

fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/resource-library/publications/coronavirus-covid-19/property/moratorium

My staff and I are also here to help you. Please call my office on 9349 6007, email matt.thistlethwaite.mp@aph.gov.au or reach me via FacebookInstagram or Twitter.

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