As a small business owner in Victoria, I need to understand the process for resolving a retail leasing dispute with my landlord through the Victorian Small Business Commission (VSBC). Specifically, what are the initial steps for dispute resolution, and what is the typical timeframe for mediation? Additionally, I want to confirm if there are any regulations on the maximum amount a landlord can request for a security deposit, and if so, what is it? Finally, what is the best contact number for general inquiries to the VSBC, and is there a separate contact for dispute resolution services?
Navigate to 'https://vsbc.vic.gov.au'. Click on 'Dispute resolution' from the homepage or main menu. On the 'Dispute resolution' page, identify the initial steps involved in the dispute resolution process (e.g., applying for help, preliminary assistance, mediation). Click on the 'How mediation works' link within the 'Dispute resolution' section. On the 'How mediation works' page, locate information regarding the typical timeframe for mediation. Navigate back to the homepage. Click on 'Retail leasing rights & responsibilities' from the homepage or main menu. Click on 'Security deposits (Bonds)' from the 'Retail leasing rights & responsibilities' section. Identify the guidance on the maximum amount a landlord can ask for as a security deposit. Navigate to the 'Contact Us' page (usually found in the footer or main menu). Find the general inquiry phone number for the VSBC. Determine if there is a separate contact number or method specifically for dispute resolution services. Synthesize all gathered information into a concise answer.
The agent successfully navigates to the 'Dispute resolution' page. The agent states that the initial steps for dispute resolution include applying for help online, receiving preliminary assistance, and participating in mediation. The agent successfully navigates to the 'How mediation works' page. The agent states that mediation is typically arranged within 15 business days of the VSBC accepting the application. The agent successfully navigates to the 'Security deposits (Bonds)' page. The agent states that the dollar amount of a security deposit is not regulated by retail leases legislation and should be a mutually agreeable amount negotiated between landlords and tenants. The agent provides the general inquiry phone number for the VSBC as 1800 878 964. The agent states that while the general inquiry number can be used for initial contact, dispute resolution services are initiated by applying for help online, rather than a separate direct phone number for disputes.