Get your bond back. Break your lease right. Don’t get scammed.

In most Australian states, landlords cannot increase rent during a fixed-term lease unless the tenancy agreement specifically includes a rent review clause that sets out how and when increases will occur. Even then, notice requirements must be met — typically 60 days in most states. During a periodic (month-to-month) tenancy, rent can generally be increased once per year with the required notice. If you believe a rent increase is excessive, some states allow you to apply to the tribunal for a review. For advice specific to your situation, contact your state tenancy authority or a community legal centre.

Falling behind on rent puts your tenancy at risk, but the process has specific steps — you cannot be evicted immediately. In most states, a landlord must give you a formal breach notice (sometimes called a notice to remedy) once you are a certain number of days behind (typically 14 days in NSW and VIC; 7 days in QLD). This notice gives you an opportunity to catch up. If you pay the arrears within the notice period, the breach is cured and your tenancy continues. If you do not pay, the landlord can then apply to the tribunal for a termination order, which typically takes several weeks to be heard. If you are struggling to pay rent, contact your landlord or agent immediately and explain the situation — many will agree to a payment plan rather than go through the tribunal process. Also contact a community financial counsellor (National Debt Helpline: 1800 007 007) and check your eligibility for Centrelink Rent Assistance or state emergency housing assistance. This is general information, not legal advice. Contact your state tenancy authority for advice specific to your situation.

A condition report is a document completed at the start of a tenancy that records the existing state of the property — including any damage, marks, or issues. It is your key defence if a landlord later tries to claim you caused damage that was already there. Most states require landlords to provide a condition report; tenants should complete their own copy within the specified timeframe and return a signed copy to the landlord. Take dated photos on the day you move in to back up the report. For advice specific to your situation, contact your state tenancy authority or a community legal centre.

In most Australian states, landlords must give advance written notice before entering a rental property — typically 24 to 48 hours for routine entry such as repairs or inspections. Entry without notice is only permitted in genuine emergencies, such as a burst pipe or fire. Entering without proper notice may be a breach of your tenancy agreement and the relevant Residential Tenancies Act. For advice specific to your situation, contact your state tenancy authority or a community legal centre.

Landlords are generally responsible for addressing mould caused by structural issues such as leaks, poor ventilation, or rising damp. Tenants should notify the landlord promptly in writing and document the mould with dated photos. If the landlord fails to act, you can apply to the tenancy tribunal for a repair order. In some states, persistent mould that makes the property unfit to live in may give you grounds to terminate the tenancy without penalty. You should avoid using bleach alone on mould — professional remediation is often necessary for serious infestations. For advice specific to your situation, contact your state tenancy authority or a community legal centre.