Guide to Notice Periods & Terminations in Queensland

Renting a property in Queensland involves certain rights and responsibilities, particularly when it comes to ending a tenancy. Whether you are considering moving out or facing termination from your landlord, knowing the correct notice periods can help you manage this process smoothly.

Understanding Notice Periods

In Queensland, the notice periods for ending a tenancy depend on the type of agreement and the reason for termination. Both landlords and tenants must adhere to these statutory timeframes as outlined in the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008.

For Tenants

  • Ending a fixed term agreement: Tenants must give at least 14 days' notice before the end date of the agreement using Form 13 - Notice of Intention to Leave.
  • No reason: If you wish to leave without a specific reason, a minimum of 14 days' notice is required before the desired end date in a periodic agreement.
  • Urgent reasons: Immediate termination can occur for certain urgent reasons, though this often necessitates tribunal involvement.

For Landlords

  • End of a fixed term: A landlord must provide at least 2 months' notice before the end date of the agreement, using Form 12 - Notice to Leave.
  • Significant breach: For a tenant's substantial breach, a minimum of 7 days' notice is required to correct the issue or vacate.

Termination without Grounds

Either party can terminate without grounds, but different notice periods apply based on whether the lease is fixed-term or periodic.

Forms and Legal Resources

For effectively managing tenancy terminations, you can access and submit the necessary forms to the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA). It's advisable to keep copies of all correspondence and forms for your records.

Using the correct forms within the specified timeframe can help avoid disputes with landlords or tenants.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you need assistance with navigating notice periods or tenancy termination, consider reaching out to:


  1. What is the notice period for ending a fixed-term lease in Queensland? In Queensland, tenants must give at least 14 days' notice before the end of a fixed-term lease, while landlords must provide 2 months' notice.
  2. Can I terminate a lease early for urgent reasons? Yes, tenants can terminate a lease for certain urgent reasons but may need tribunal involvement to facilitate this.
  3. Who handles rental disputes in Queensland? The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) manages rental disputes in Queensland and provides necessary forms and guidance.

Bob Jones
Bob Jones

Editor & Researcher, Tenant Rights Australia

Bob writes and reviews tenant law content for various regions. They’re passionate about housing justice and simplifying legal protections for tenants everywhere.