Rental bonds in Australian Capital Territory
Key rules at a glance
| Maximum bond | 4 weeks' rent; taking a bond is not compulsory, but any bond taken must be lodgedSource: Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (ACT) |
|---|---|
| Authority | ACT Revenue Office — Rental BondsSource: revenue.act.gov.au |
| Lodgement deadline | Lessors within 2 weeks; agents within 4 weeksSource: RTA 1997 (ACT) |
| Disputes | ACAT has jurisdiction over all residential tenancy disputes, including bond claimsSource: ACAT |
How it works in Australian Capital Territory
The ACT caps bonds at four weeks' rent. Lessors and agents are not legally required to take a bond, but if they do they must lodge it with the ACT Revenue Office — lessors within two weeks, agents within four. At the end of the tenancy the bond is released through the Revenue Office, and the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal decides any dispute.
ACT Revenue Office — Rental BondsFrequently asked questions
How much bond can a landlord charge in the ACT?▾
Four weeks' rent. Taking a bond is optional in the ACT, but if you take one it must be lodged with the ACT Revenue Office.
How long do I have to lodge a bond in the ACT?▾
Lessors must lodge within two weeks of receiving the bond; agents have four weeks.
Who decides bond disputes in the ACT?▾
The ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) handles all residential tenancy disputes, including disagreements over the bond.
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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.