The prolonged lease dispute between Melbourne's wholesale market vendors and the government-run Melbourne Market Authority (MMA) has reached a resolution after eight months of unrest. All 17 involved stallholders have now signed leases, concluding the tensions that began in October of last year.
Initially, the authority announced rental increases of 6 to 7.6 percent annually over a decade, leading to vendor protests and fears about rising fresh produce costs. In April, vendors faced legal action threats if they failed to agree to a revised rental deal. The Valuer-General later intervened with a compromised rate, reducing yearly rent rises to a range of 2.4 to 3.6 percent.
MMA chair Peter Tuohey expressed satisfaction with the outcome, stating, "We're pleased to have reached a resolution that provides our tenants with clarity about their future at the market." He acknowledged the challenging period, noting the agreement brings stability and allows the market to continue supplying fresh produce efficiently to Victorians.
The new agreement also includes relief measures for stallholders, such as reduced bond and electricity costs, alongside a waiver of rent back payments from August to February. Peter Tuohey emphasized the balanced approach taken to ensure market sustainability while supporting tenants.
Looking ahead, lease renewals for an additional 100 stallholders will become due in August, potentially prompting further discussions on tenancy terms.
Source: ABC News
