Rent increase rules in Australia, state by state
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. 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 hard cap tied to local CPI. The rules below show the frequency, notice period, and any cap 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 | 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) | CPI (Canberra rents) + 10% | 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?▾
In most states, once every 12 months. The Northern Territory allows increases every six months. 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 cap — increases above CPI for Canberra rents plus 10% need the tenant's agreement or a tribunal 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, SA, WA, and Tasmania, and 90 days in Victoria. Queensland requires at least two months. 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.