Major Rental Law Changes in Queensland: What You Need to Know (Effective May 1, 2025)

Queensland has rolled out a significant wave of rental law reforms under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2024. These changes, phased in over time, reached a crucial milestone on 1 May 2025, ushering in new rights for tenants and new obligations for landlords and property managers.

1. Standardised Applications & Privacy Protections

• New rental application forms: All applications must now use the official Form 22 (general tenancies) or Form R22 (rooming accommodation).

• Multiple submission options: Landlords/agents must allow at least two ways to apply, with one being platform-independent (like email or paper).

• Restricted personal information: Applications can only request data directly relevant to the tenancy, with a maximum of two supporting documents.

• Privacy safeguards: Information from unsuccessful applications must be securely destroyed.

2. Stricter Entry Rules & Timeframes

• Longer entry notice: Increased from 24 hours to 48 hours for most property inspections or access.

• Post-notice limits: After a Notice to Leave is issued, property entry is limited to twice per week.

• Fixture/change requests: Tenants must now use Form 23 to request property alterations. Owners must respond within 28 days.

3. Transparency Around Fees & Benefits

• Landlords and agents must disclose any financial benefit received from preferred rent-payment methods (e.g., third-party platforms).

Broader Reform Timeline

Industry Reactions

• The Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) has raised concerns about aspects of the new application process, warning some rules could create confusion for both tenants and managers.

• Recent rental listing breaches (e.g., “offers over” pricing) highlight how important compliance and enforcement will be going forward.

📌 Short Summary / FAQ

Queensland Rental Law Changes – Effective 1 May 2025

What’s new?

• Standard application forms (Form 22 / R22) must be used.

• At least two ways to apply must be offered (not just third-party platforms).

• Only essential personal info can be requested, with max two supporting docs.

• 48-hour entry notice now required (was 24 hours).

• Entry limits after a Notice to Leave: max two times per week.

• Tenants’ fixture requests must be answered within 28 days.

• Disclosure required if agents/landlords earn financial benefits from rent-payment methods.

These reforms mark a significant shift in Queensland’s rental market, and both landlords, agents and tenants will need to adjust to new processes and responsibilities as they take effect.

With these changes now in place, it’s important for everyone involved in the rental process to stay informed and up to date to ensure compliance.