Ah, a sign of the times that the Tenants Victoria call line goes straight to "we are experiencing a higher than usual call volume and cannot help you" right after pressing the numbers to get assistance as a private renter. Guess I'll have to spam call over and over

E: managed to get through to a really lovely lady, unfortunately it's really unclear as to whether VCAT would consider that "market rates" include REA fees de jure (even though they very much do de facto). But it's worth trying to appeal anyway, I guess. Gotta do what I can 🤷

E2: appeal lodged. I'm really not confident I'll get a rent reduction but ah well. Not fussed about souring the relationship with LL when they were the ones who pulled the dick move anyway. I don't want to move and be locked into a year long contract when I'll leave by June. Might look at slowly getting rid of my stuff (and plants...) in the new year and see if I can go stay with a friend or extended family member for cheap in the last couple months and leave this place earlier, if possible.