What Are the New Tenancy Laws in Queensland 2025?
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The new Queensland tenancy laws effective 1 May 2025 introduce significant changes to rental agreements, bond claims, and eviction processes, affecting both landlords and tenants.
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What Are the New Tenancy Laws in Queensland 2025?
DIRECT ANSWER
The new tenancy laws in Queensland, effective from 1 May 2025, introduce significant changes to rental agreements, bond claims, and eviction processes under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2023. These reforms affect both landlords and tenants across Brisbane and the rest of Queensland. Key changes include limits on rent increases to once every 12 months, stricter bond claim procedures, and new minimum standards for rental properties.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Rent increases are now limited to once every 12 months for all tenancies.
Rent bidding is prohibited, meaning landlords cannot solicit offers above the advertised price.
Bond claims must now follow a stricter process, with landlords required to provide evidence of damage or unpaid rent.
Notice periods for eviction have changed, particularly for no-grounds terminations.
Minimum housing standards now apply to all new tenancy agreements.
Tenants have greater rights regarding pets, with landlords needing a tribunal order to refuse a pet request.
What Are the New Tenancy Laws in Queensland 2025?
The new tenancy laws in Queensland, which came into effect on 1 May 2025, represent one of the most significant reforms to residential tenancy law in the state's history. These changes were introduced under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2023, which amended the primary legislation governing rental properties in Queensland.
At Enlight Lawyers, we have been assisting landlords and tenants across Brisbane and South East Queensland to understand and comply with these new requirements. The changes are wide-ranging and affect nearly every aspect of a residential tenancy, from how rent is set and increased to how bonds are claimed and how evictions are processed.
Rent Increases Limited to Once Every 12 Months
Previously, landlords could increase rent every six months under a periodic agreement. Under the new laws, rent can only be increased once every 12 months, regardless of the type of tenancy agreement. This provides greater certainty and stability for tenants in Brisbane and throughout Queensland.
Rent increases must also be given with at least 60 days' written notice, and the new rent must not be excessive compared to similar properties in the area. If a tenant believes the increase is excessive, they can apply to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) to have it reviewed.
Rent Bidding Prohibited
Rent bidding is now illegal in Queensland. This means landlords and property managers cannot solicit, invite, or encourage prospective tenants to offer more than the advertised rental price. This practice, which had become increasingly common in competitive Brisbane rental markets, is now prohibited, and penalties apply for breaches.
Stricter Bond Claim Process
The bond claim process has been significantly tightened. Landlords must now provide documented evidence of any claim against a bond, including photographs, receipts, or quotes for repairs. The period for lodging a bond claim has also been extended, giving tenants more time to review and dispute any claims.
If a tenant disputes a bond claim, the matter will be referred to the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) for resolution or to QCAT if the dispute cannot be resolved. This change protects tenants from unfair or unsubstantiated bond deductions.
Eviction Process Changes
The new laws have changed the eviction process, particularly for no-grounds terminations. For periodic agreements, the notice period for no-grounds termination has been extended from 60 days to 90 days. Additionally, landlords must now provide a prescribed reason for ending a tenancy, and the list of acceptable grounds has been refined.
For fixed-term agreements, landlords cannot end the tenancy without a valid ground, such as the property being sold with vacant possession or the landlord or their family moving in. These changes provide greater security of tenure for tenants.
Pet-Friendly Reforms
Tenants now have a stronger right to keep pets in rental properties. Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse a pet request and must apply to QCAT to refuse a request. The tribunal will consider factors such as the suitability of the property for the pet and whether the pet would cause damage.
If a tenant keeps a pet without approval, the landlord can still apply to QCAT for an order to remove the pet, but the tribunal will consider the circumstances before making any order.
Practical Application in Australia
In practice, these changes mean that both landlords and tenants need to be more careful about how they manage their tenancy arrangements. For landlords, the key takeaway is that the old ways of doing business are no longer acceptable. Rent increases need to be carefully timed and documented, bond claims need proper evidence, and evictions need valid grounds.
For tenants, the new laws provide stronger protections and more security. However, tenants also need to understand their obligations, including maintaining the property and paying rent on time. The new laws do not remove these fundamental obligations.
At Enlight Lawyers, we have seen an increase in enquiries from both landlords and tenants who are unsure about how the new laws apply to their specific situations. Our property law team can provide practical advice on compliance and dispute resolution.
Common Risks or Mistakes
One of the most common mistakes we see is landlords attempting to increase rent more than once in a 12-month period, unaware of the new restriction. This can result in the increase being invalid and potentially expose the landlord to penalties.
Another common error is landlords or property managers soliciting rent bids, even informally. This practice is now illegal and can result in significant fines.
For tenants, a common mistake is failing to document the condition of the property at the start of the tenancy. With the stricter bond claim process, having clear photographic evidence of the property's condition is essential for protecting your bond.
Step-by-Step Process for Compliance
For Landlords:
Review all existing tenancy agreements to ensure they comply with the new laws.
Update your rent increase procedures to comply with the 12-month restriction.
Ensure your bond claim process includes comprehensive documentation.
Understand the new grounds for eviction and the required notice periods.
Develop a pet policy that complies with the new pet-friendly provisions.
For Tenants:
Document the condition of the property with photos and written notes at the start of the tenancy.
Understand your rights regarding rent increases and bond claims.
If you want a pet, make a formal written request to your landlord.
Keep records of all communications with your landlord or property manager.
If you believe your rights have been breached, seek legal advice promptly.
Table Comparison: Old vs New Tenancy Laws
| Aspect | Old Law (Pre-1 May 2025) | New Law (From 1 May 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Rent increase frequency | Every 6 months (periodic) | Once every 12 months |
| Rent bidding | Not prohibited | Prohibited |
| Bond claim notice period | Shorter period | Extended period with evidence requirements |
| No-grounds eviction notice | 60 days | 90 days |
| Pet requests | Landlord could refuse without reason | Landlord must apply to QCAT to refuse |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a landlord increase rent more than once a year in Queensland?
No. Under the new tenancy laws effective 1 May 2025, rent can only be increased once every 12 months for any tenancy agreement in Queensland.
Is rent bidding illegal in Queensland?
Yes. Rent bidding is now prohibited in Queensland. Landlords and property managers cannot solicit offers above the advertised rental price.
What notice is required for a no-grounds eviction in Queensland?
For periodic agreements, landlords must provide 90 days' notice for a no-grounds termination, up from 60 days under the old laws.
Can a landlord refuse a pet in Queensland?
A landlord can refuse a pet, but they must apply to QCAT for an order to refuse. The tribunal will consider the specific circumstances before making a decision.
What evidence does a landlord need for a bond claim?
Landlords must provide documented evidence, such as photographs, receipts, or quotes, to support any bond claim. Unsubstantiated claims can be rejected.
Do the new laws apply to existing tenancy agreements?
Yes. The new laws apply to all tenancy agreements in Queensland, including those entered into before 1 May 2025, except where transitional provisions apply.
What happens if a landlord breaches the new tenancy laws?
Landlords can face penalties, including fines, and tenants can apply to QCAT for remedies. Penalties vary depending on the specific breach.
How can I dispute a bond claim in Queensland?
You can dispute a bond claim through the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) or apply to QCAT if the dispute cannot be resolved through the RTA.
Practical Next Steps
If you are a landlord or tenant in Brisbane or anywhere in Queensland, it is essential to understand how the new tenancy laws affect your rights and obligations. At Enlight Lawyers, we offer a free initial consultation to discuss your situation and provide practical advice.
Our property law team can assist with:
Reviewing and updating tenancy agreements
Advising on compliance with the new laws
Representing you in QCAT disputes
Drafting pet agreements and other tenancy documents
Contact us today to speak with one of our experienced property lawyers. We are located at 10/1-3 Noel Street, Slacks Creek, and can be reached on (07) 3495 1884. We offer fixed fees for many services and can assist in Bengali, Hindi, Urdu, Arabic, Vietnamese, and Mandarin.