28 April 2023

Following significant reforms to residential tenancy laws in Queensland in October 2021 and October 2022, and with more changes yet to come, the Queensland Government has outlined what tenants, landlords, and agents can expect in upcoming changes to the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008.

Changes to the frequency of rent increases

From 1 July 2023, changes to the frequency at which landlords may increase rent will come into place. The changes will limit rent increases to occurring once every 12 months and will take effect for all new and existing tenancies.

The Queensland Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) states, “Any rent increase after 1 July 2023 will only be valid if it has been at least 12 months since the previous rent increase. More frequent rent increases written into tenancy agreements prior to 1 July 2023 will not apply. “

See more information about rent increase frequency changes by visiting the RTA webpage below.

Minimum housing standards

From 1 September 2023, new rules around minimum housing standards will come into effect for all new tenancies, with the same rules applying to all tenancies from 1 September 2024.

The RTA states, “ Minimum housing standards aim to ensure rental properties are safe, secure and functional and provide tenants, residents, property managers and owners with greater clarity around their maintenance obligations for rental properties.

“Minimum housing standards will apply to all types of tenancy arrangements, including general tenancies, rooming accommodation and moveable dwellings.”

See more information about minimum housing standards by visiting the RTA webpage below.

Next steps and community consultation

The Queensland Government has opened community consultation to allow for feedback around the proposed changes to tenancy law, including:

• Installing modifications – make it easier for tenants to install the safety, security and accessibility modifications they need

• Making minor personalisation changes – help parties negotiate about making minor personalisation changes to rental properties

• Balancing privacy and access – better balance between tenants’ rights to privacy and owners’ need for information to inform their investment decisions

• Improving the rental bond process – ensure rental bond settings provide appropriate security and parties are transparent and accountable for their bond claims

• Fairer fees and charges – ensure rent payment, utility and reletting fees and charges are fair and reasonable.

Learn more or have your say by accessing the Queensland Government webpage below.