What is the biggest responsibility of a tenant?

The biggest responsibility of a tenant is to pay rent on time. Tenants are also responsible for keeping the property in good condition, reporting any necessary repairs, and adhering to the terms of the lease agreement.

What are my rights as a tenant in Australia?

As a tenant in Australia, you have rights that include living in a safe and well-maintained property, having your bond returned at the end of the tenancy (provided the property is in good condition), and being protected from unfair rent increases and evictions. There are also state-specific rights around things like inspection frequency and notice periods, but these differ depending on where you live. Some states have strengthened these protections recently. In NSW, for example, landlords have needed a valid reason to end a tenancy since 19 May 2025, ending "no-grounds" evictions.

Can you rent a house while on Centrelink?

Yes, you can rent a house while on Centrelink. Many landlords accept tenants receiving Centrelink payments, and you may also be eligible for Rent Assistance to help cover the cost of renting.

What is the most a landlord can raise rent?

There's usually no fixed dollar cap on how much a landlord can raise the rent, but there are rules on how often and how it's done. In NSW, Victoria and Western Australia, for example, rent can generally only be increased once every 12 months, and landlords must give written notice before increasing rent. If you think an increase is excessive, you can challenge it through your state's tenancy tribunal or court. The rules differ in each state and territory, so check with your local tenancy regulator or advocacy service.

Renting guide and tips for Australian renters

Every aspect of the Australian rental market can feel competitive, expensive and stressful.
Rents are high, and while several states have strengthened renters' rights in recent years, the rules can still feel stacked in the landlord's favour. And saving enough to get out of the rental market and into the property market feels impossible.
This article contains a list of guides and tips to help renters with submitting an application, knowing your rights and how to eventually become a home owner yourself.

How to complete a rental application

Renters in the private market usually need to submit an application and get approval from the agent or landlord. It's not that different from a job application in some ways.

If you're looking to rent in a competitive market (or even just a popular neighbourhood or very desirable property), putting your best foot forward in your application could make all the difference. Once you're approved, our moving house guide covers bond, removalist and connection costs for the move.

Read our 7 tips on making a successful rental application

How do I deal with my landlord?

Some landlords and agents can be almost impossible to deal with. Knowing the rules on raising rent and what your landlord is legally able to do is the best way to protect yourself if things go wrong.

If you need more information you can check out the tenancy advocacy union or service in your state or territory. These are voluntary services that provide legal advice and help to renters.

Find your state or territory's rental advocacy organisation

How to save for a house while renting

As hard as it can be, with saving, careful budgeting and clear planning it is possible to go from a renter to a home owner. You can read our suggestions in more detail via the link below, but in short:

Work out your deposit size and price range.
Create a budget.
Find ways to cut back on spending.
Look for a higher interest savings account.
Get creative with your buying strategy.

How to save for a property while renting

Renting is more stressful than a mortgage

Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker asks Australians each month how they're managing their housing costs. In September 2026, 42% of people struggled with paying rent, compared with 35% who faced difficulties with their home loan payments.

Source: Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker

Can I have a pet while renting?

In many states you may find it hard to find a rental property if you're bringing a pet with you. It's not impossible, of course. In Victoria and NSW, your landlord needs a good reason to refuse your request to have a pet on the property. In Victoria they must apply to the tribunal (VCAT) to refuse, and in NSW they can only refuse consent for certain reasons. The rules differ in other states and territories, so check with your local tenancy regulator.

More advice and tips for renters

Frequently asked questions

As a tenant in Australia, you have rights that include living in a safe and well-maintained property, having your bond returned at the end of the tenancy (provided the property is in good condition), and being protected from unfair rent increases and evictions. There are also state-specific rights around things like inspection frequency and notice periods, but these differ depending on where you live. Some states have strengthened these protections recently. In NSW, for example, landlords have needed a valid reason to end a tenancy since 19 May 2025, ending "no-grounds" evictions.
There's usually no fixed dollar cap on how much a landlord can raise the rent, but there are rules on how often and how it's done. In NSW, Victoria and Western Australia, for example, rent can generally only be increased once every 12 months, and landlords must give written notice before increasing rent. If you think an increase is excessive, you can challenge it through your state's tenancy tribunal or court. The rules differ in each state and territory, so check with your local tenancy regulator or advocacy service.

Finder writers are subject matter experts and use primary sources, in-depth research and interviews with other experts to ensure you're getting accurate, up-to-date information. Articles are fact checked in line with our editorial guidelines.
1. Tenants' Union of NSW
2. Tenants Victoria
3. Tenants Queensland
4. Tenants' Information and Advocacy Service (SA)
5. Tenants' Union of Tasmania
6. Tenancy WA
7. Legal Aid ACT (Tenancy Advice Service)
8. Tenants' Advice Service (Darwin Community Legal Service)
9. Finder's Consumer Sentiment Tracker, accessed October 2026

Thank you for your feedback!

To make sure you get accurate and helpful information, this guide has been edited by Anne-Marie Emerson as part of our fact-checking process.

Written by

Richard Whitten

Senior Money Editor

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Richard Whitten is Finder’s Senior Money Editor, with over eight years of experience in home loans, property, credit cards and personal finance. His insights appear in top media outlets like Yahoo Finance, Money Magazine, and the Herald Sun, and he frequently offers expert commentary on television and radio, helping Australians navigate mortgages and property ownership. Richard started his career in education and textbook publishing in South Korea. He holds multiple industry certifications, including a Certificate IV in Mortgage Broking (RG 206) and Tier 1 and Tier 2 certifications (RG 146), as well as a Bachelor of Education from the University of Sydney and a Graduate Certificate in Communications from Deakin University. See full bio

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Richard has written 764 Finder guides across topics including:

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Renting guide

Our renting guide can help you know your rights and navigate every aspect of the rental market, from dealing with landlords to saving up for a place of your own.