Victoria extends rental eviction freeze until the end of the year

Victoria has extended its freeze on rental evictions for residential and commercial tenants during lockdown.

The ban on evictions will last until December 31, unless "in rare and specific circumstances," Premier Daniel Andrews confirmed today.

Rental hikes would also continue to be banned until the end of the year.

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"Just as JobKeeper has been extended by the Commonwealth government, just as JobSeeker at that higher rate has been extended by the Commonwealth government, we are today announcing the extension and the refinement of those important protections," Premier Daniel Andrews said.

"Both for families and individuals who are renting, but also businesses who've got commercial arrangements and who, through no fault of their own, have got turnover that is a fraction of what it was this time last year."

The eviction freeze would provide certainty to those people at risk of losing their homes, Victorian Treasurer Tim Pallas added.

"It's also about making sure that we strike the right balance and we provide support and assistance to landlords who do the right thing by their tenants," Mr Pallas said.

Landlords would be able to access more grant funding and be eligible for more land tax relief.

A $60 million fund will be established for small commercial landlords, providing up to $3000 per tenancy.

Landlords who provided waivers of at least 50 per cent of rent payable for at least three months would be eligible for an additional 25 per cent land tax relief.

The Victorian government will also invest $600,000 in advocacy groups to support vulnerable tenants.