Q&A · Last reviewed 2026-05-01
What does Section 32 mean in Victoria?
Section 32 (formally a 'vendor's statement') is a Victorian-specific document the seller must provide before contract signing. It discloses title, planning, rates, restrictive covenants, easements, and any known building work that could affect the buyer.
Under Section 32 Sale of Land Act 1962 (VIC), the vendor must give the prospective purchaser a written statement covering: title particulars, rates + outgoings, easements + covenants, planning + zoning info, building approvals + permits, services + utilities, owners corporation (if strata), and recent insurance claim history.
Section 32 must be supplied BEFORE the contract is signed. If it's not, the buyer can rescind the contract within 3 years of signing. If incomplete or inaccurate, the buyer can also rescind, though they must demonstrate they were materially misled.
From a buyer's perspective: read Section 32 before bidding/negotiating. Check for unusual covenants (heritage overlays, easement restrictions, mining-cycle exposure on rural-fringe), planning issues (proposed road widening adjacent), or owners-corporation issues (overdue levies, pending special levies, recent litigation).
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Informational. Not financial advice. Verify with a licensed adviser appropriate to your circumstances.
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