In 2024, Queensland updated its tenancy laws to encourage greater fairness and transparency in the market. Whether you are a seasoned property investor, or a newcomer hoping to crack the investor market, you have probably been left wondering what these changes mean for you. Being informed about the tenancy law updates Queensland will help you invest smarter, ensure you are operating legally, and help ensure trust with your tenants.
Key Changes in Queensland Rental Laws
Minimum Housing Standards
In September 2023, new standards were introduced to rental housing in Queensland. These regulations were aimed at ensuring the safety and functionality of homes for rent, and include the following:
- The home must be weatherproof and structurally sound.
- Fixtures and fittings must be well-maintained and free from hazards that could cause injury.
- Windows and doors must have secure locks.
- The home should be free from vermin, dampness, and mould.
- Privacy coverings must be provided.
- Plumbing and drainage systems must be completely functional.
- Where provided, kitchen and laundry facilities must be fully functional.
For most owners, minimum housing standards should not present a problem but it is worth being familiar with them and ensuring that you aren’t in breach of the rules. If you are renting out an older property it will be worth paying particular attention to these standards and making any necessary repairs proactively.
Ending Fixed-Term Agreements
As an owner, it is important to understand when you can and can’t end the tenancy of your home. For fixed-term agreements, the end of the term can be used as a reason, but periodic agreements can only be ended for specific reasons under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008.
You can only end a tenancy for specific valid reasons, including:
- The fixed-term agreement has finished (with proper notice).
- Both owner and tenant agree in writing to end the tenancy.
- The tenant hasn’t followed a QCAT order or fixed a breach (like unpaid rent or damage).
- The tenant has abandoned the property.
- The property is being sold, significantly renovated, or repurposed for non-residential use (can only apply at the end of a fixed-term tenancy).
- The owner wants to move into the property (can only apply at the end of a fixed-term tenancy).
- The property is damaged beyond repair (e.g., from a natural disaster).
- The tenant no longer qualifies for the accommodation type (like student or supported housing).
- The sole tenant has passed away.
- The property has been taken over by a bank, the government, or another authority.
- A QCAT order ends the tenancy due to hardship.
For reasons such as selling the property, moving in, or significant renovations, the tenancy cannot be ended before the fixed-term agreement expires. The tenancy will only end on the agreed termination date or after the notice period, whichever is later. These restrictions help ensure tenants have stability during the fixed term.
If you need to end a tenancy, make sure you understand the rules and provide the correct notice for the situation. Fixed-term agreements require you to wait until the end date unless there’s a breach. For periodic agreements, you must have a valid reason listed under the law.
Always communicate clearly and provide written notice using the correct forms. If you’re unsure, seek legal advice or contact the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) to ensure you’re following the rules. Missteps could lead to delays, disputes, or penalties.
Changes to Domestic Violence Protections
New laws were introduced to protect renters experiencing domestic violence. You, as the property owner, have a significant role to play in the safety of your tenants experiencing family violence, and you must follow the guidance closely.
When a tenant provides a Notice ending tenancy/residency interest (domestic and family violence) (Form 20, R20), you have seven days to confirm whether you accept the notice and evidence or intend to challenge it through QCAT. If other tenants remain, you must wait at least seven days after the vacating tenant’s interest ends to inform them. A Continuing Interest Notice must be issued within 14 days to confirm the tenancy continues for the remaining tenants.
Confidentiality is critical—you cannot disclose details about the vacating tenant’s situation, ask for their forwarding address, or inform remaining tenants until the required time has passed. The vacating tenant cannot be charged for costs related to ending the tenancy early, including damages caused by domestic violence. Bond refunds are handled directly between you and the vacating tenant, excluding remaining tenants from the process.
Tenants have the right to change locks for safety without consent, but they must provide you with a copy unless agreed otherwise. Penalties apply for breaches of these obligations.
Read more here about your obligations with domestic violence property compliance Queensland.
By handling these situations carefully and following the law, you can ensure the process is respectful and compliant.
Ending Rent Bidding
One of the key rental law changes 2024 has been the Queensland government banning rent bidding, which was a previously very common practice in the Queensland real estate market. Prospective tenants could offer more than the advertised rent amount which drove up prices.
As an owner, you will now need to ensure that the advertised rent price is well-researched and in line with market value because once it is set, you cannot take bids above that price.
Regulating Rent Increases
Another change in June 2024 is rent increase limits Queensland. Owners must now adhere to stricter regulations regarding rent increases to ensure stability for tenants. Rent can only be increased once every 12 months, and this rule applies to the property itself, not just individual tenancies. If a tenant moves out and a new one moves in, the 12-month restriction still applies, starting from the date of the last increase.
Make sure your tenancy agreements include the date of the last rent increase for the property—it’s a quick addition that keeps everything clear. If a tenant asks, you’ll need to provide written proof of the most recent rent increase. In doing so, you are fostering a good relationship with your tenants while staying on the right side of the law. Plus, it’s a small step that helps tenants budget better and keeps your property management running smoothly.
Implications for Property Investors Queensland
Financial Impacts
Ensuring that you are financially able to provide minimum housing standards and company with regulations is exceedingly important with Queensland housing standards. Failing to do so has the potential to cost you much more dearly than the cost of repairs.
Creating a sinking fund for your rental portfolio is a good way to ensure that you can always cover unexpected costs and keep your rental properties in good working order.
Property Management Adjustments
The industry of property management has become more professionalised over time, with increased regulation and expectations. A good working knowledge of rental law is required, as are fantastic people and negotiation skills. For these reasons, more and more people are opting for professional property management services to look after their investments.
This becomes particularly relevant when we discuss the laws around ending fixed-term agreements. Since you can no longer end a tenancy at the end of a lease period for any reason, vetting rental candidates thoroughly has become a critical part of property investment. You can choose to do all of this yourself if you have the skills and experience, but it is important to consider where professional support will make your investments run far more smoothly.
What Should Potential Property Investors Consider When Buying a Rental Property?
If you’re considering investing in Queensland’s rental market, understanding the current regulatory landscape and market trends is essential to make informed decisions. Here are key areas to focus on:
Consider rental property compliance Queensland carefully
Ensure any property you’re considering complies with Queensland’s minimum housing standards or can be easily upgraded to meet them. This includes safety features, structural soundness, and amenities like adequate locks and ventilation. Properties requiring minimal compliance work will save you time and money. A property compliance conveyancer Queensland can help by reviewing property reports and contracts to identify any compliance issues, giving you greater confidence in your investment decision.
Factor in Professional Support
Building a strong team is critical. Partner with experienced property managers who understand the latest rental laws and can guide you in tenant management, compliance, and maintenance. Additionally, consult legal advisors to review lease agreements and address any potential legal risks. A conveyancer for property investors can also provide invaluable support by reviewing property contracts, identifying compliance issues, and ensuring the legal aspects of your investment are in order from the start.
Stay informed and Plan for the Future
Keep up to date with Queensland’s rental market trends and potential regulatory changes. Attend investor workshops, follow updates from the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA), and use digital tools for compliance tracking and financial planning. Staying proactive will help you future-proof your investment against changing laws.
By carefully evaluating properties and seeking professional advice, you can position yourself for success in Queensland’s evolving rental market.
The information provided is general in nature and not intended as investment advice. For specific investment guidance, please consult a registered financial advisor.
