Neighbourly behaviour statement
A neighbourly behaviour statement is given to all public housing renters so that they are fully aware of their responsibilities under the Residential Tenancies Act 1997 and their residential rental agreement.
The neighbourly behaviour statement outlines the responsibilities of renters, including paying rent on time, respecting public housing properties and respecting their neighbours' right to peace, comfort and privacy.
The statement also outlines the consequences for renters who breach their residential rental agreement.
New public housing renters must sign the neighbourly behaviour statement before they can sign a public housing residential rental agreement. If they don't, they won't be allowed to move into public housing.
The neighbourly behaviour statement outlines the responsibilities of renters, including respecting their neighbours' right to peace, comfort and privacy.
Being neighbourly
Keep the noise down
Keep noise to a minimum, especially late at night and early in the morning. This includes music, construction, air conditioners and vacuum cleaners.
EPA Victoria has a list of prohibited times for different noise types on their website. They also have advice on how to deal with noisy neighbours.
Look after children and visitors
Children have a right to play and be safe. Make sure they don't trespass onto other people's property.
Respect other people's privacy
It's good to have a friendly chat with your neighbours, but remember that most people like their privacy.
Keep the place looking nice
If you live on an estate or in a block of units, we'll look after shared areas, like stairways or lawns.
You can help to keep things clean and tidy by putting your rubbish in the bin.
Having a problem with a neighbour
If you are having a problem with a neighbour, the best thing to do is talk to them. You may be able to work together to find a compromise that makes you both happy.
If that doesn't work, contact your local council or the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria.
If the problem is serious, like being harassed, call the police straight away.
It's a good idea to keep a record of antisocial behaviour. Write down what happened, and the time that it happened. This could used as evidence if we need to take legal action against a neighbour causing problems for other people.
Neighbours who are public housing renters
If the neighbour you're having trouble with is a public housing renter, contact your local housing office.
Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria
This free service helps people work out their problems.
The disputing parties meet with two independent mediators. They discuss the issues, think about solutions and decide on an outcome that everyone agrees with.
It deals with lots of issues including fencing problems, trees, animals, noise and other neighbourhood disputes.
For help or more information:
- Phone: 1300 372 888
- Contact form: Contact Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria
- Visit the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria's website.