The NSW State Government's Boarding Houses Bill has passed through both Houses of the
Parliament. The Act has not commenced operation yet. But it is understood that the Government intends for it to commence 1 January 2013.

Under the Act, residents of registrable boarding houses will have an enforceable entitlement to written agreements and written receipts. They will  also have agreements that must comply with certain basic occupancy principles.

These include entitlements to premises that are in a reasonable state of repair, to know the house rules before moving in, to quiet enjoyment, to know why and how the occupancy may be ended, including how much notice is to be given, and to be given reasonable notice of termination.

They also include safeguards against penalty terms and unfair utility charges, and a limit on bonds to two weeks' rent.

Residents will also have straight-forward access to dispute resolution in the Consumer, Trader and Tenancy Tribunal.

The Act also establishes a Boarding Houses Register and directs councils to inspect premises for compliance with building and fire safety requirements.

For more information about the Act visit:
http://lists.tenants.org.au/res/Boarding_Houses_Act_2.pdf