Our free service helps renters and rental providers work through issues like excessive rent, bond claims, repairs, and compensation disputes.

To get started, all you need to do is make an application using our online portal, myRDRV. An application to RDRV is an application to VCAT.

This guide will walk you through the application process, what information you’ll need to provide, and what to expect after you submit your application.

 

On this page

Gather your information

To complete your application, you will need to provide information related to your dispute. This includes things like your lease or rental agreement, evidence and any notices that have been sent.

Illustration of a checklist with rental documents like lease agreements, evidence, and notices being prepared for upload

Your rental agreement

Your rental agreement (lease) contains key details we may need, including: 

  • the start date of your rental agreement
  • names of all renters listed on the lease 
  • real estate agent details (if applicable) 
  • rental provider (landlord) information 

Note: Your rental provider is the one who owns the property, not the real estate agent. Their name is usually on the lease. If you can’t find it, ask your real estate agent. 
Uploading your rental agreement is optional, it helps us verify your application. If multiple renters are involved, all names must be included in your RDRV application. 
If you don’t have a copy of your rental agreement, you can still apply to RDRV. You’ll need to provide as much detail as possible about your tenancy, including the rental provider’s name and contact details. 

 

Details about your dispute

  • Be ready to describe what happened, including: 
  • what issue you’re experiencing (e.g., rent increase, delayed bond refund, repairs needed)  
  • when the problem started 
  • what outcome you’re hoping for any urgent concerns (e.g., health or safety risks) 

Providing clear details helps us assess your case more quickly. 

 

Communication history

Depending on your dispute, if you’ve already discussed the issue with your rental provider, real estate agent, or other renters, please include copies of any relevant communication.  
For example: 

  • emails 
  • text messages 
  • letters
  • phone call records
  • screenshots of conversations 

This helps show what steps you’ve already taken to resolve the issue. 

 

Supporting evidence

Depending on your dispute, you may need to provide: 

  • photos (e.g., property damage, maintenance issues) 
  • receipts (e.g., costs for urgent repairs) 
  • inspection reports 
  • reports or notices from Consumer Affairs Victoria (suggested for excessive rent increase applications) 
  • independent assessments (e.g., a quote from a tradesperson, an inspector’s report) 

If you don’t have all the documents listed, you can still apply - just provide as much relevant information as possible. 

 

Note

If you cannot make an online application, call us on 1300-01-7378 (1300-01-RDRV) and we will handle your dispute over the phone. 

Apply using myRDRV

Create an account

To apply for RDRV to assist with your rental dispute, you’ll need to create an account using myRDRV.

With a myRDRV account, you can:

  • create and submit an application
  • save your application and return to it later
  • submit any relevant documents or evidence
  • track the status of your application
  • receive updates on your dispute
  • easy access to information and documents about your case(s) 

Once your account is set up, you can log in and start your application.

Person using mobile to create and submit rental dispute application on myRDRV portal

When you submit an application, you’ll receive a confirmation message, and one of our Resolution Coordinators will be in touch. You can check the status of your application at any time by logging back into myRDRV.

 

Guide to submitting an application through the portal

What happens after you apply

When we receive your application, it will be assessed and assigned to one of our Resolution Coordinators to review. They will contact you by phone or email to discuss what happens next.

  • We aim to respond to all applications within a couple of days of receiving it
  • Most disputes are resolved within a month, but this may vary depending on the case
  • If your dispute cannot be resolved through RDRV, we’ll tell you where to go 

Learn more about myRDRV

 

Where to get help

If you need help, please get in touch.

We’re here to guide you through the application process, answer any questions, and ensure you have the support you need.

Apply now Contact us

Frequently asked questions

  • RDRV is an appropriate dispute resolution and case management service provided by VCAT that helps renters and rental providers resolve rental issues quickly. Our expert Resolution Coordinators can give you support and guidance to help reach a fair outcome. 

  • Anyone renting or managing a rental property in Victoria can use RDRV. This includes renters, rental providers, real estate agents, rooming house residents and operators, caravan park residents and owners and site tenants and owners.

  • We can help with disagreements about bonds, compensation, rent increases and repairs. If your issue falls outside these topics, click here to see who can help.  

  • Yes. RDRV is a specialist rental dispute resolution and case management service provided by VCAT to help resolve rental issues early, without going to a hearing.

  • If neither the renter or the rental provider can agree on a solution, or for more complex matters you may need to go to a hearing. If this happens, your RDRV Resolution Coordinator will support you through the process and provide everything you have given us to the right people. This will make the process faster, so that you don't have to provide the same information twice. You will need to give evidence and present your story to a Member at the hearing.  

    If you have to go to a hearing, you may have to pay an application fee. If the hearing is longer than a day, hearing fees are payable. You can find information about costs, concessions, and discounts here.