Rent increase · Queensland

My rent is going up

Once every 12 months, 2 months' notice, and 30 days to challenge.

1. 01Rent can only go up once every 12 months

   s 93

   Rent can't be increased less than 12 months after the last increase for the property. The 12 months attaches to the property, not your lease, so it still applies if you sign a new agreement or the property changes owners.

   You might have been told: "It's a new lease, so it's a new rent." The 12 months runs from the last increase for the property, whatever the lease.

   Next step: Ask the agent in writing for the date of the last rent increase for the property. If it was less than 12 months ago, reply that the increase can't apply yet under s 93.

   Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (Qld) s 93, as amended in 2024

2. 02You must get at least 2 months' written notice

   s 91

   A rent increase needs written notice stating the new rent and the day it starts. That day can't be earlier than 2 months after you're given the notice, or the end of the 12-month minimum period, whichever is later.

   You might have been told: "We mentioned it at the inspection, so it starts next month." It needs written notice, at least 2 months ahead.

   Next step: Count 2 months from the day you received the written notice. If the start date is sooner, write back asking for a corrected notice.

   Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (Qld) s 91

3. 03During a fixed term, rent only rises if your agreement says so

   s 91

   In a fixed-term agreement, rent can only go up if the agreement itself says it will, and states the amount or how it's worked out. The 2 months' notice and the 12-month rule still apply.

   You might have been told: "Rent reviews happen every six months." Only if your agreement actually provides for it.

   Next step: Read the rent clause in your agreement. If it doesn't provide for an increase, the rent stays the same for the fixed term.

   Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (Qld) s 91

4. 04You can challenge an excessive increase, within 30 days

   s 92

   If you think an increase is excessive, you can apply to QCAT within 30 days of receiving the notice. QCAT can reduce the increase or set it aside, looking at market rents for comparable places, the state of repair, and how long since the last increase.

   You might have been told: "Pay it or leave." You can ask the Tribunal to review it, but the 30-day limit is strict.

   Next step: Act quickly: gather comparable listings and get free advice from Tenants Queensland (tenantsqld.org.au) on the next step before the 30 days run out.

   Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (Qld) s 92

The letter writer and free tools cover NSW for now. For help with your situation, ask above or contact Tenants Queensland at tenantsqld.org.au.