The Property Council has today welcomed the announcement that the State Government has
passed a regulation to enact National Cabinet’s Code of Conduct for commercial leases in
Queensland.
Queensland Executive Director of the Property Council, Chris Mountford said that the regulation,
made under the COVID-19 Emergency Response Act 2020, provides important clarity for
commercial landlords and tenants who are negotiating rental relief to support businesses effected
by COVID-19.
“Since National Cabinet announced each State would be introducing regulations to give effect to
the principles of the national code, the Property Council has provided multiple submissions and
detailed feedback to the State Government as they have been developing this regulation.” Mr
Mountford said.
“The Property Council acknowledges the Queensland Government’s thorough consultation
throughout this process which has resulted in Australia’s clearest and fairest regulation.
“Ultimately no regulation is going to eliminate the need for landlords and tenants sit down and
negotiate in good faith. But this regulation does support this process by providing clear direction
and a focus on fairness for both parties as they look to negotiate mutually sustainable outcomes.
“This regulation ensures that small businesses that have been hit hard by COVID-19 have
reasonable protections, while at the same time ensuring that landlords are not tied up dealing
with the very small minority of tenants who have been attempting to take advantage.
“Ultimately this will ensure a focus on assisting those small businesses that genuinely need the
assistance.” Mr Mountford said.
