Residential Tenancies Act (Australia)

Legal Definition

Each Australian state and territory has its own Residential Tenancies Act governing the relationship between landlords and residential tenants. The laws share common principles but differ in details. Common key rights across most jurisdictions: **Written tenancy agreement**: Landlords must provide a written agreement. Standard terms are implied by law even where no written agreement exists. **Bond**: Limited to 4 weeks' rent in most states. Held by a government authority (e.g., NSW Fair Trading, Rental Tenancy Bond Authority VIC). Cannot be withheld at the end unless damage or rent arrears is proven. **Repairs**: Landlords must maintain the property in good repair. Urgent repairs (e.g., no hot water, broken locks, flooding) must be attended to within 24 hours. Non-urgent repairs within a reasonable time (usually 14 days after written notice). **Notice for eviction**: Landlords must give minimum written notice to end a tenancy (e.g., 90 days for no-reason termination in NSW; varies by state). Immediate eviction without notice is unlawful. **Quiet enjoyment**: Tenants have the right to live in their home without interference from the landlord (24 hours' notice required for inspections in most states). Disputes are resolved by state tribunals free or cheaply: NCAT (NSW), VCAT (Victoria), QCAT (QLD), SAT (SA), FMC/SAT in other states.