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When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

When renting a home in Australia, you can either rent a property through a registered real estate agent or rent directly from the property owner (landlord).

Renting a property using a real estate agency means that a registered agent will act as an intermediary between you and the landlord. They'll help you with the rental process, including showing you the property, processing your application, and managing your bond money.

Renting directly from the landlord is called a private lease (or private rental). This means that the landlord will handle the rental process themselves. This can be riskier for you as a tenant, because the landlord may or may not follow correct procedures. It also means that you would not be able to use the support services offered by real estate agencies.

Here are some of the most common questions international students have about their rights as a tenant in Australia, and what their landlords can and cannot do.

Can my landlord rent me the home if I haven't seen it?

By law, yes, they can. However, it is very important that you see the property before you sign a lease so that you can:

see for yourself that it is a real listing
check that the home is clean and secure, without mould or mildew, and that the appliances work
ensure that the property is in a safe and convenient location, e.g. with transport and to campus nearby, and not too much noise from construction or major roadways, and
meet the landlord of a private rental property and make sure they are a respectable, kind person.

Can my landlord ask for bond money before I sign a lease?

No. Landlords cannot ask for bond money (‘the bond’) before you sign a lease. It is important to have the contract signed first to protect your rights as a tenant under the law.

Can my landlord hold my bond money?

No. The landlord cannot hold your bond money.

The bond money must be held by your state or territory government's bond authority. It will be held with that authority until the end of the tenancy.

You can usually lodge this directly with the bond authority. However, if your landlord lodges the bond money for you, make sure they give you an official bond lodgment form to complete. After lodgment, they then must provide you with a receipt.

If there's any damage to the property at the end of your tenancy, the landlord can make a claim to use some or all of the bond money to cover the cost of repairs. If the property is left in good condition, the bond will be refunded to you after your ‘end of lease’ or ‘final’ inspection.

Does my landlord need to give me a condition report?

Yes. Your landlord must give you a condition report that outlines the details of any existing damage, such as marks on the walls or stains on the carpet. You'll then need to:

check that the landlord’s condition report is accurate and if they have missed anything, add it to the report (it's a good idea to also take photos)
return the condition report to the landlord within seven days of signing the lease
make sure the report is signed by both you and the landlord, and
keep a copy for your records.

The report can be used as evidence if there's a dispute about damage to the property at the end of the tenancy.

Can my landlord increase my rent whenever they want?

No. Your landlord cannot increase your rent without giving you proper notice in writing.

Most states and territories prohibit rent rises during a fixed-term lease. However, you need to check that your lease agreement, as it may have a clause that says rental increases are allowed.

If you think a planned rent increase is unreasonable, you can dispute it with your landlord or get help from the relevant state or territory rental authority (listed below).

Can my landlord enter my house or apartment without my permission?

No. Your landlord cannot enter your house or apartment without your permission. However, landlords are allowed to carry out routine inspections after giving you proper notice.

There are different state and territory laws regarding:

the amount of notice they need to give, and
how often your property can be inspected.

Can my landlord keep my bond money if I move out early?

It depends on the terms of your lease agreement. If you have a fixed-term lease and you break it by moving out early, your landlord may be entitled to keep some or all of your bond money. You may also need to pay for the advertising for them to find a new tenant.

However, if your lease is month-to-month and you give proper (agreed length of time) notice before moving out, your landlord must return your bond to you, minus any unpaid rent or damages.

Can my landlord evict me without a reason?

No. Your landlord cannot evict you without a valid reason. However, you can be evicted if you do not pay your rent, or you breach the lease agreement.

If your landlord wants to evict you, they must give you written notice and follow the legal process for eviction in your state or territory.

Can my landlord charge me for repairs to the property?

It depends on the nature of the repairs and who caused the damage. Repairs that are the landlord's responsibility include:

plumbing issues
electrical faults
malfunctioning appliances such as your oven or fans, and
issues with the structure of the house, such as a leaking roof or crack in the ceiling.

However, if the damage was caused by you or your guests, this is your responsibility to get it repaired. For example, if you caused a hole in the wall, you would need to pay for the repairs yourself.

If your landlord fails to repair something in your home, please contact your local tenant rights organisation.

State and Territory tenant rights organisations

If you have any questions or concerns about your landlord's behavior, consult your local student centre or tenant rights organisation, or seek legal advice.

You are entitled to a safe and comfortable rental experience in Australia and there is always someone who can help. If you’re not sure where to start, ask your education provider for advice. All states and territories also have a local student service, hub or support centre to help you, and you can also ask the tenants’ service in your state or territory.

New South Wales: NSW Fair Trading and Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland and Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
ACT: Tenants’ Advice Service and Access Canberra
Western Australia: WA Department of Commerce and Tenancy WA
Northern Territory: Tenants’ Advice Service and Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
South Australia: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania and Consumer Affairs

Al alquilar una vivienda en Australia, puedes alquilar una propiedad a través de un agente de bienes raíces registrado o alquilar directamente al propietario (arrendador).

Alquilar una propiedad en una agencia de bienes raíces significa que un agente registrado actuará como intermediario entre tú y el arrendador. Te ayudará con el proceso de alquiler, lo que incluye mostrarte la propiedad, procesar tu solicitud y administrar el dinero de tu depósito en garantía.

Alquilar directamente al arrendador se denomina arrendamiento privado (o alquiler privado). Esto significa que el arrendador se encargará él mismo del proceso de alquiler. Esto puede ser más arriesgado para ti como inquilino, porque el arrendador puede seguir o no los procedimientos correctos. También significa que no podrías usar los servicios de apoyo que ofrecen las agencias de bienes raíces.

A continuación, te mostramos algunas de las preguntas más frecuentes que se hacen los estudiantes internacionales sobre sus derechos como inquilinos en Australia y sobre lo que pueden y no pueden hacer sus arrendador.

¿Puede mi arrendador alquilarme la vivienda si no la he visto?

Por ley, sí, puede hacerlo. Sin embargo, es muy importante que veas la vivienda antes de firmar un contrato de alquiler para que puedas:

ver tú mismo que se trata de un anuncio real;
verificar que la vivienda está limpia y es segura, no tiene moho ni hongos, y que los electrodomésticos funcionan;
asegurarte de que la vivienda se encuentra en un lugar seguro y práctico, p. ej., con transporte y el campus cerca, y que no haya demasiado ruido de obras en construcción o de las carreteras principales; y
conocer al arrendador de la vivienda privada en alquiler y asegurarte de que sea una persona respetuosa y amable.

¿Puede mi arrendador solicitarme el dinero del depósito en garantía antes de que firme el contrato de alquiler?

No. Los arrendadores no te pueden solicitar el dinero del depósito en garantía (“el depósito en garantía”) antes de que firmes el contrato de alquiler. Es importante que primero firmes el contrato para proteger tus derechos como inquilino en virtud de la ley.

¿Puede mi arrendador retener el dinero de mi depósito en garantía?

No. El arrendador no puede retener el dinero de tu depósito en garantía.

El dinero del depósito en garantía debe estar en manos de la autoridad en materia de depósitos en garantía del gobierno de tu estado o territorio. Lo retendrá dicha autoridad hasta que finalice el alquiler.

Por lo general, puedes depositarlo directamente ante la autoridad en materia de depósitos en garantía. Sin embargo, si tu arrendador deposita el dinero del depósito en garantía en tu nombre, asegúrate de que te entregue para completar un formulario oficial de presentación del depósito en garantía. Una vez depositado, deberá entregarte un recibo.

Si hay algún daño en la vivienda al finalizar tu alquiler, el casero puede reclamar el uso de una parte o la totalidad del dinero del depósito en garantía para cubrir el costo de las reparaciones. Si dejas la propiedad en buenas condiciones, recibirás el reembolso del depósito en garantía después de la “inspección de fin de contrato de alquiler” o “definitiva”.

¿Mi arrendador tiene que darme un informe sobre el estado?

Sí. Tu arrendador debe proporcionarte un informe sobre el estado que describa los detalles de cualquier daño existente, como marcas en las paredes o manchas en las alfombras. Luego deberás:

verificar que el informe del arrendador sobre el estado sea preciso y, si ha omitido algo, deberás agregarlo al informe (también conviene tomar fotos);
devolver el informe sobre el estado al arrendador en el plazo de siete días a partir de la firma del contrato de alquiler;
asegurarte de que el informe tenga tu firma y la del arrendador; y
conservar una copia como constancia.

El informe puede utilizarse como prueba si hay un desacuerdo sobre los daños sufridos por la propiedad al finalizar el alquiler.

¿Puede mi arrendador aumentar el alquiler cuando lo desee?

No. Tu arrendador no puede aumentar el alquiler sin notificarte debidamente por escrito.

La mayoría de los estados y territorios prohíben los aumentos de alquiler durante un contrato de duración determinada. Sin embargo, debes verificar tu contrato de alquiler, ya que puede tener una cláusula que diga que se permiten aumentos de alquiler.

Si crees que un aumento de alquiler previsto no es razonable, puedes discutirlo con tu arrendador u obtener ayuda de la autoridad pertinente en materia de alquiler del estado o territorio (que se indica a continuación).

¿Puede mi arrendador ingresar a mi casa o apartamento sin mi permiso?

No. Tu arrendador no puede ingresar a tu casa o apartamento sin tu permiso. Sin embargo, los arrendadores están autorizados a realizar inspecciones de rutina tras avisarte con la debida anticipación.

Hay distintas leyes de los estados y territorios que regulan lo siguiente:

la cantidad de notificaciones que te deben entregar, y
la frecuencia con la que pueden inspeccionar tu vivienda.

¿Puede mi arrendador retener el dinero de mi depósito en garantía si me marcho antes?

Depende de los términos de tu contrato de alquiler. Si tienes un contrato de alquiler de duración determinada y lo rescindes al mudarte anticipadamente, tu casero puede tener derecho a conservar una parte o la totalidad del dinero de tu depósito en garantía. También es posible que tengas que pagar la publicidad para que encuentre un nuevo inquilino.

Sin embargo, si tu contrato de alquiler es mensual y avisas con la debida anticipación (el tiempo acordado) antes de marcharte, tu arrendador debe devolverte el depósito en garantía, menos cualquier daño o alquiler impago.

¿Puede mi arrendador desalojarme sin motivo?

No. Tu arrendador no puede desalojarte sin un motivo válido. Sin embargo, te puede desalojar si no pagas tu alquiler o si incumples el contrato de alquiler.

Si tu arrendador desea desalojarte, debe notificártelo por escrito y seguir el proceso legal de desalojo de tu estado o territorio.

¿Puede mi arrendador cobrarme las reparaciones de la vivienda?

Depende de la naturaleza de las reparaciones y de quién haya causado el daño. Las reparaciones que son responsabilidad del arrendador incluyen:

problemas de plomería,
fallas eléctricas,
electrodomésticos que no funcionan correctamente, como el horno o los ventiladores, y
problemas con la estructura de la casa, como goteras en el techo o grietas en el cielo raso.

Sin embargo, si tú o tus invitados causaron los daños, tú eres responsable de repararlos. Por ejemplo, si provocas un agujero en la pared, serás tú quien deba pagar las reparaciones.

Si tu arrendador no repara algo en la vivienda, comunícate con la organización local de defensa de los derechos de los inquilinos.

Organizaciones de defensa de los derechos de los inquilinos en el estado y territorio

Si tienes alguna pregunta o inquietud sobre el comportamiento de tu arrendador, consulta a tu centro estudiantil local o a la organización de defensa de los derechos de los inquilinos, o busca asesoramiento legal.

Tienes derecho a disfrutar de una experiencia de alquiler segura y cómoda en Australia y siempre hay alguien que te puede ayudar. Si no sabes por dónde empezar, pide asesoramiento a tu proveedor de educación. Además, todos los estados y territorios cuentan con un centro, punto o servicio de apoyo estudiantil local que te brindará ayuda, y también puedes preguntar al servicio de atención al inquilino de tu estado o territorio.

Nueva Gales del Sur: NSW Fair Trading y Tenants Advice & Advocacy Services NSW
Queensland: Tenants Queensland y Residential Tenancies Authority
Victoria: Consumer Affairs Victoria
Territorio de la Capital Australiana: Tenants’ Advice Service y Access Canberra
Australia Occidental: WA Department of Commerce y Tenancy WA
Territorio del Norte: Tenants’ Advice Service y Consumer Affairs Northern Territory
Australia del Sur: Consumer and Business Services (CBS) y Tenants Information and Advisory Service
Tasmania: The Tenants‘ Union of Tasmania y Consumer Affairs