First published 23 Oct 2026, 11:30am
Some tenants are being locked out of the rental market by AI technology.
Vulnerable prospective tenants are being rejected by AI, with an inquiry into the real estate industry revealing the technology is locking some out of housing.
The revelations come as part of Parliament’s inquiry into the conduct of real estate professionals across South Australia.
Flinders University associate professor Selina Tually told the inquiry that some agents are using computer programs to assess rental applications based on certain information, including income, family circumstances and cultural background.
Some prospective tenants have been asked if they identify as Aboriginal or have children, as well as the source of any income.
The parliamentary inquiry will investigate a range of issues in SA’s real estate industry.
The technology is then used to screen them before they even get a chance to inspect a home.
SA Greens MP and chair of the inquiry Robert Simms said it was “deeply concerning”.
“South Australians are already struggling to find somewhere affordable to live and now we’re hearing that some people are being knocked out of the running by a computer before they’ve even had a chance to inspect a property,” he said.
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“I was shocked to hear that some rental application platforms are asking people about their cultural background, what possible relevance should that have to someone’s ability to rent a home?
“Imagine being a single parent desperately trying to find a home for your family, only to discover that disclosing your child could be working against you.
Greens MP Robert Simms. NCA NewsWire / Morgan Sette.
“Technology should be making it easier for people to find a home, not creating another barrier for those who are already doing it tough.”
The parliamentary inquiry will investigate a range of issues in the industry, including underquoting, inaccurate appraisals, non-disclosure of building faults, rent bidding and unreasonable rental inspection reports.
It will also consider whether existing regulations, codes of practice and dispute resolution mechanisms are adequately protecting consumers.
Real Estate Institute of SA chief executive Andrea Heading said last month it supported constructive scrutiny of the sector where it was evidence-based, balanced and directed towards practical improvement.
REISA chief executive Andrea Heading. Picture: Supplied.
However, she said any inquiry should distinguish between conduct that requires regulatory intervention and broader systemic issues, including tribunal delays, consumer education, private landlord obligations and the need for consistent enforcement of existing laws.
Ms Heading said REISA remained committed to working constructively with parliament, government and regulators to improve standards, strengthen consumer protections and deliver practical reform that benefits everyone.
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