One of CHIA Vic’s most popular and important member services is our RTA/VCAT Helpline. Staffed by veteran tenancy worker and RTA/VCAT expert Mark Smoljo, the helpline is available to assist with advice and information relating to the Residential Tenancies Act and the Victorian Civil Administrative Tribunal, the Victorian Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities (HR Charter) and the Owners Corporations Act 2006 (OC).
Mark works for CHIA Vic two days a week (usually Mondays and Thursdays). He has extensive experience in presenting cases at VCAT and can also offer other practical solutions that may enable you to avoid the VCAT process.
Mark is a member of the VCAT Residential Tenancies Act Users Group and regularly networks with community housing workers in the sector.
You can email Mark with a brief explanation of the matter and the name of your organisation, or call the helpline on 0417 356 094.
Note: Mark can provide advice from an experienced practitioner point of view. He does not give legal advice. See below if you require legal advice.
Need information or advice?
Email your VCAT or RTA inquiry or call 0417 356 094.
If your organisation has any dealings relating to the RTA, VCAT or HR Charter, please ensure staff are well prepared and trained at the relevant CHIA VIC course which are run regularly as introductions for new workers and as a refresher for experienced tenancy workers.
CHIA Vic has negotiated an agreement for member organisations to access discounted legal advice on VCAT and the RTA from Russell Kennedy.
Russell Kennedy is one of Victoria’s leading full-service law firms offering a comprehensive range of legal services to its clients and has the skills, expertise and resources required to provide high-quality legal services to CHIA Vic members.
Russell Kennedy is also passionate about access to justice for everyone. Its commitment is embedded within the culture of the firm. It has one of the highest levels of contribution per lawyer and participation rates in Australia.
Russell Kennedy will provide CHIA Vic members with practical, expert legal solutions that meet your needs and excellent customer service.
External resources
Tenants Victoria
Including step-by-step guides and fact sheets which outline and explain the legal rights of tenants, and the obligations of both social housing and private landlords.
Consumer Affairs Victoria
- Types of rental agreements
- Leases and notices
- Rental bond and condition report
- Rent and other payments
- Standards, repairs and entry rights
- Ending a lease or residency
- Owners corporation rules and resolving disputes
- Owners corporation property maintenance
- Owners corporation finance, insurance and record keeping
