Neighbourhoods
The Housing Network encourages safe, secure, harmonious neighbourhoods.
Before you move into your home you will sign a tenancy agreement and be given information that outlines the rights and responsibilities for you as the tenant to your landlords, your neighbours and your visitors. People need to respect the right to quiet enjoyment of others within their neigbourhoods.
Here are some things you can do to help you get on well with your neighbours:
Keep the noise down
Keep noise to a minimum particularly late at night and early in the morning. EPA Victoria provides a list of the different types of noises and the times that they are prohibited.
Look after your children and visitors
Children have a right to play, but make sure they don’t trespass onto other people's property, or are excessively noisy.
Respect other people's privacy
It’s great to have a friendly chat with your neighbours, but remember, most people like their privacy.
Look after your home
Make sure you regularly mow your lawns and keep your gardens and surrounding areas in good order and rubbish free.
Problems with Neighbours
If you are having a problem with a neighbour, the best thing to do is talk with them. There may be a compromise that will make you both happy.
If talking doesn’t work, you can contact your Housing Network Tenancy Worker or the Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria.
If the problem you’re having is serious, such as being harassed, you should call the police immediately.
It’s a good idea to keep a record of anti-social behaviour. This may be used later as evidence, if legal action is required against a neighbour who is causing problems for other people.
Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria
The Dispute Settlement Centre of Victoria has been established by the Victorian State Government to help people settle their disputes in a confidential and cooperative manner.
The two sides meet together with two independent mediators. They discuss the issues, think about solutions and decide on an outcome agreeable to both parties.
It’s a free service, dealing with a wide range of issues including problems involving fences, trees, animals, noise and children.