The Melbourne Market Authority (MMA), operated by the Victorian government and based in Epping, announced that all 17 stallholders involved in the long-running dispute have now signed lease agreements, ending an eight-month conflict.
The situation escalated earlier this year when vendors were warned of potential legal action if they refused to accept revised rental terms proposed in April.
The disagreement originated in October last year, when the MMA disclosed that rent for traders would increase annually by 6 to 7.6 percent over a decade. This announcement triggered protests from stallholders and raised public concerns about potential price hikes for fresh produce.
Resolution reached
MMA Chair Peter Tuohey confirmed that all 17 tenants have agreed to the updated lease terms.
“We’re glad to have reached a resolution that gives our tenants clarity about their future at the market,” he said.
“We acknowledge it’s been a difficult time, but this agreement brings much-needed stability and allows the market to continue delivering fresh produce to Victorians.”
In April, the Valuer-General proposed a compromise with annual rent increases ranging between 2.4 and 3.6 percent. Around the same time, the MMA warned of court action if vendors refused to sign.
Despite the compromise, many stallholders still worried that rental costs would remain too high.
Additional support offered
The MMA stated that the new deal includes further concessions for tenants. These include reductions in bond and electricity charges and a waiver of backdated rent from August to February.
“We’ve aimed for a balanced and fair outcome, ensuring the market’s financial viability while supporting our tenants,” Mr Tuohey said.
Lease renewals for approximately 100 more stallholders are scheduled for August.
