A property manager is choosing between rental applicants. Which reason for declining an applicant is lawful under NSW anti-discrimination rules?
Correct Answer
D) The applicant has a record of rent arrears with previous landlords
Guidance from the NSW Government lists race, sex, pregnancy, age, disability, marital or domestic partner status, sexual orientation and gender identity as grounds on which landlords and agents must not discriminate. It also confirms that declining applicants who smoke, have a poor tenancy history or have had rent payment problems is not unlawful.
Why This Is the Correct Answer
A history of rent arrears is not a protected attribute, so it is a legitimate reason to prefer another applicant.
Why the Other Options Are Wrong
Background Knowledge for Consumer Protection
Exam Tip for Consumer Protection
Common Mistakes to Avoid on Consumer Protection Questions
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A NSW vendor accepted Priya's offer verbally, and Priya paid an expression of interest deposit and a building and pest report. Before exchange, the vendor signed with another buyer at a higher price. What can Priya recover?
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A property manager scans and stores a colour copy of every rental applicant's passport and driver licence 'just in case'. What does the Fair Trading Commissioner's guidance recommend?