Queensland Stage 2 Rental Reform September 2024 Changes & What to Expect in May 2025

Significant changes are coming to Queensland’s rental laws, with new reforms commencing on 30 September 2024. These changes aim to address growing housing pressures and create a fairer, more transparent rental market for both tenants and landlords. Whether you’re a property owner or a renter in Queensland, staying informed about these updates is crucial to understanding your rights and obligations.

In August 2024, the Queensland Government announced the commencement of the remaining Stage 2 Rental Law Reforms in two phases:

1. 30 September 2024 – The first part of the reforms took effect.
2. 1 May 2025 – The second part will be implemented.

The first phase of reforms introduced several important measures, including:

• Fee-Free Rent Payment Options:

Landlords and property managers must offer tenants at least one fee-free rent payment method and provide notice of any costs associated with other payment methods.

• Bond Claim Evidence Requirements:

Landlords must supply evidence supporting bond claims or dispute resolution requests within 14 days of making the claim or request.

• Standardised Bond Limits:

The maximum bond limit thresholds have been removed. A maximum bond of four weeks’ rent now applies to all rental properties, regardless of the weekly rent amount.

• Bond Refunds for Renewals:

Tenants may request a bond refund in cases where too much bond has been held upon the renewal of a tenancy.

• Timely Billing for Charges:

Bills for service charges (e.g., water consumption) must be provided to tenants within four weeks of receipt from the supplier. Failure to meet this deadline means the tenant is not required to pay the charges.

• Partial Water Billing Adjustments:

For partial billing periods, tenants are not required to pay water consumption charges unless the property manager calculates the charges in compliance with the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation (RTRA) Act.

• Reletting Costs for Broken Leases:

If a tenant breaks their lease, reletting costs must be calculated using a statutory formula, ensuring transparency and fairness.

• Entry:

The entry notice periods extended from 24 hours to 48 hours.  

There will also be a limit of two visits per week, once a Form 12 Notice to Leave or Form 13 Notice of Intention to Leave is issued.

• Tenancy Applications:

New verification of identity requirements will apply, with a prescribed standardised form.

These updates build upon previous reforms, such as rent increase restrictions and enhanced tenant rights. Together, they aim to improve housing affordability and security.

Rent Increase Restrictions

From 1 July 2023, landlords can only increase rent once every 12 months, helping to stabilise rental costs and reduce financial strain for tenants.

Tenant Alteration Requests

Tenants now have greater freedom to request minor modifications to rental properties, such as installing accessibility aids or safety fixtures, with landlords requiring valid reasons to refuse such requests.

Domestic Violence Protections

Enhanced measures provide tenants experiencing domestic violence with reduced financial and legal repercussions when exiting a tenancy.

Improved Property Maintenance Standards

Landlords are required to meet stricter property maintenance standards to ensure rental homes are safe, secure, and livable.

Tenants benefit from increased rights, greater protections, and a higher standard of living, including:

• Fee-Free Rent Payments: No hidden costs for rent payments.
• Fairer Bond Management: Refund options for excess bonds and clearer claim processes.
• Stable Costs: One rent increase is permitted every 12 months.
• Better Living Standards: Stricter maintenance and property quality requirements.

Landlords must adapt to stricter regulations, including:

• Offer at least one fee-free rent payment method to tenants.
• Prepare timely billing for all water and service charges.
• Ensure bond claims are supported with evidence within 14 days.
• Calculate reletting costs fairly using the statutory formula for broken leases.
• Confirm their properties meet updated minimum housing standards to avoid penalties.

While the reforms introduce additional responsibilities, they also promote tenant satisfaction, reducing vacancies and encouraging long-term tenancies.

With the second phase of reforms set to begin on 1 May 2025, it’s important to stay ahead:

• Landlords: Review your rental processes to ensure compliance with new standards and timelines.
• Tenants: Familiarise yourself with updated rights and protections to secure fair treatment and housing conditions.

By understanding and adapting to these changes, both landlords and tenants can benefit from a more balanced and equitable rental market.

For further information, visit:

• Queensland Government Housing
• Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA)
• Minimum Housing Standards

Stay informed and prepare for a fairer rental future in Queensland.

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