On June 6, 2024, the Queensland Government introduced significant changes to the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (RTRA Act). These updates impact rent arrangements and rent increases for both new and existing tenancies in Queensland.
Key Changes:
1. Limits on Accepting Rent:
- Lessors or property managers cannot accept offers from prospective tenants to:
- Pay rent above the advertised price.
- Pay more than 1 month in advance for general tenancies.
- Pay more than 2 weeks in advance for periodic tenancies, rooming accommodations, or movable dwellings.
- Penalty for violations: 50 penalty units ($7,740).
2. Limits on Rent Increases:
- Rent cannot be increased within 12 months of the last increase for the property, regardless of changes in tenancy or ownership.
- This rule applies to all tenancy agreements from June 6, 2024.
- Penalty for violations: 20 penalty units ($3,096).
3. Invalid Rent Increases:
- Any agreed rent increase must adhere to the 12-month rule; otherwise, it is void.
4. Evidence of Last Rent Increase:
- Tenants can request evidence of the last rent increase. Lessors must respond within 14 days.
- Penalty for non-compliance: 40 penalty units ($6,192).
5. Notice Requirements for Rent Increase:
- Written notice with the amount and date of the increase is required.
- Notice periods vary based on agreement types but must comply with the 12-month rule.
6. Rent Increase Amount:
- The law does not cap the amount of rent increase. Market information will continue to guide rent adjustments.
7. Applying to QCAT:
- Lessors facing undue hardship can apply to QCAT for a rent increase order.
8. Exempt Lessors:
- Certain lessors, such as those funded under the Housing Act 2003 or Community Services Act 2007, are exempt from these regulations.
For detailed information, please refer to the complete REIQ fact sheet on rent regulations and increases.
