https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/housing/renting/repairs-alterations-safety-and-pets/pets

Huh. So they aren’t. Pet bonds are definately a thing in WA, I didn’t realise they weren’t in Victoria. That site also answers your question:

Renters who want to keep a pet should:

• complete a Pet request form. The renter must complete a separate form for each pet they want to keep.
• give the form or forms to their rental provider
• keep a copy for their own records.

The rental provider has 14 days (starting the day after they receive the form) to make a decision.

• If they agree to the renter having the pet, they should give consent in writing, using the address the renter gave on the pet request form.
• If they don’t agree, they should apply to VCAT and tell the renter they have done so within the 14 days. The renter can’t keep a pet while VCAT is making a decision.
• If the rental provider does not respond at all within the 14 days the renter can keep the pet.