Australian landlord rules, state by state
Bonds, land tax, smoke alarms, and rent increases work differently in every state and territory. These guides set out what applies wherever you let your property — written for self-managing landlords, not agents.
Rental bonds
A rental bond (security deposit) is money a tenant pays at the start of a tenancy that a landlord can claim against at the end for unpaid rent or damage beyond fair wear and tear.
Bond lodgement
This is the how-to companion to our rental bond rules guide: the exact steps a landlord or agent follows to lodge a bond with each state authority — which portal to use, what forms are required, and how long you have before the deadline bites.
Land tax
Land tax is an annual state tax on the unimproved value of land you own that is not your main residence — which includes most investment properties.
Smoke alarms & safety
Every Australian state and territory requires working smoke alarms in rental properties, but the detail varies a lot — whether alarms must be photoelectric, interconnected, or hard-wired, how often a landlord must test them, and what other safety checks (electrical safety switches, gas safety, pool fencing) apply.
Rent increases
Across Australia a landlord can generally only raise the rent once every 12 months (every six months in the Northern Territory), and must give written notice well in advance using the right form.
Every state and territory
PropAlly covers all eight Australian jurisdictions:
- Queensland (QLD)
- New South Wales (NSW)
- Victoria (VIC)
- South Australia (SA)
- Western Australia (WA)
- Tasmania (TAS)
- Northern Territory (NT)
- Australian Capital Territory (ACT)
Last reviewed 9 June 2026
Figures reflect the 2025–26 financial year and tenancy laws in force as at mid-2026. State rules change often — always confirm the current figure with the linked authority before you rely on it.
This is general information for Australian landlords, not legal, financial, or tax advice. PropAlly is a software provider, not a law firm, accountant, or licensed adviser. Verify your obligations with the relevant state authority or a qualified professional.