Fiji’s Tenants Hold Their Breath: Will New Laws Finally Protect Their Rights?

Tenants in Fiji are grappling with significant challenges as the delayed approval of the Landlord and Tenancy Bill continues to affect their rights and protections. Originally drafted in 2018, this important legislation has yet to be presented in Parliament, leaving many issues unresolved in the rental sector.

The Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission has reported that over 2,000 submissions were received during public consultations on the bill, which was developed alongside the Solicitor-General’s Office and the Ministry of Trade. Despite amendments made based on public feedback, Chief Executive Senikavika Jiuta stated that the bill is currently under further review by the relevant ministry.

Concerns have been raised by committee members, such as Virendra Lal, regarding the high percentage of tenancy complaints—54%—resulting from landlords failing to provide formal tenancy agreements. Without the implementation of the bill, the Commission’s powers are limited to monitoring rent receipts, mediating disputes, and enforcing the existing rent freeze on residential properties.

Jiuta emphasized the Commission’s commitment to educating both landlords and tenants about their rights and responsibilities, utilizing various platforms like social media and newspapers. Furthermore, it is clarified that commercial rent has been deregulated since 2009 and is not included in the residential rent freeze currently in effect.

This situation resonates with previous reports highlighting rampant complaints regarding tenancy issues among consumers in Fiji. The Consumer Council of Fiji noted similar concerns related to rental agreements, bond refunds, and eviction notices. The ongoing push for updated legislation raises hopes that tenants will soon see enhanced protections, especially amidst growing challenges in the rental market.

Fiji’s public discourse suggests optimism that the proposed legislative updates will soon be forwarded to Parliament for deliberation and that a more balanced rental landscape can be achieved, ultimately contributing to tenants’ livelihoods and housing security in the region.