Chris Minns Champions Renters’ Rights: Bold Move to Ban Unnecessary Paid Background Checks in NSW

NSW Premier Chris Minns’ proposal to ban paid background checks on rental applications is a bold and necessary step toward ensuring fairness and affordability in the rental market. If you’ve recently tried to secure a rental, you’re likely familiar with real estate agencies pushing paid background checks, often marketed with the promise of improving your chances of approval. These checks, typically costing around $30, are not essential and serve as a financial burden for prospective tenants. The suspicion that real estate agencies receive kickbacks from these checks only adds to the concern.

The rental market is already challenging enough without the added pressure of these extraneous fees. Renters, particularly those with limited financial means, face numerous hurdles, from high rental prices to stringent application requirements. Adding a paid background check is redundant and exploitative, placing an additional financial strain on those who can least afford it. Chris Minns’ proposal acknowledges this burden and takes decisive action to alleviate it.