Rent increase rules in Australia, state by state
Each state and territory limits how often a landlord can raise the rent — once every 12 months in NSW, for example, and every six months in the Northern Territory — and requires written notice well in advance using the right form. Most states have no cap on how much the increase can be, but a tenant can challenge an excessive increase at the tribunal — and the ACT goes further, legislating a threshold tied to local CPI. The rules below show the frequency, notice period, and any threshold for each jurisdiction.
Compare every state and territory
| State | Max frequency | Notice period | Rent cap | Review body |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| QLD | Once per 12 months (property-based) | At least 2 months | None (QCAT excessive-rent review) | QCAT |
| NSW | Once per 12 months | 60 days | None (NCAT excessive-rent review) | NCAT |
| VIC | Once per 12 months | 90 days (from 25 Nov 2025) | None (VCAT excessive-rent review) | VCAT |
| SA | Once per 12 months | 60 days | None (SACAT excessive-rent review) | SACAT |
| WA | Once per 12 months (since 29 Jul 2024) | 60 days | None (Magistrates Court review) | Magistrates Court |
| TAS | Once per 12 months | More than 60 days | None (Commissioner review) | Residential Tenancy Commissioner |
| NT | Once per 6 months | 30 days | None (NTCAT excessive-rent review) | NTCAT |
| ACT | Once per 12 months | 8 weeks (56 days) | Threshold: 110% of the CPI rents rise (Canberra) | ACAT |
Select a state for the full rules, key facts with sources, and FAQs.
Common questions
How often can a landlord increase rent in Australia?▾
Once every 12 months in NSW, 12 months in Victoria, 12 months in Queensland, 12 months in South Australia, 12 months in Western Australia, 12 months in Tasmania and 12 months in the ACT. Increases are allowed every six months in the Northern Territory. The limit is usually tied to the property or the last increase, so signing a new agreement with the same tenant does not reset the clock in most jurisdictions.
Is there a cap on how much rent can be increased?▾
Only the ACT sets a legislated threshold — an increase above 110% of the rise in the rents part of Canberra CPI needs the tenant's written agreement or an ACAT order. Elsewhere there is no fixed cap, but a tenant can ask the tribunal to rule an increase excessive based on comparable rents and the property's condition.
What notice does a landlord have to give for a rent increase?▾
It ranges from 30 days in the NT and 8 weeks in the ACT to 60 days in NSW, 60 days in South Australia, 60 days in Western Australia, more than 60 days in Tasmania, 90 days in Victoria and at least two months in Queensland. Using the wrong form or too little notice can make the increase invalid.
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Get startedLast 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.