Understanding Evictions & Breach Notices in Queensland

In Queensland, understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding evictions and breach notices is crucial for maintaining a stable rental life. Whether you're facing an eviction or have received a breach notice, knowing the right steps to take can make a substantial difference in your situation.

Evictions in Queensland

Evictions in Queensland are governed by the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008. An eviction can occur for several reasons, such as non-payment of rent, property damage, or lease violations. Importantly, landlords must adhere to the proper legal process for evictions, which includes providing tenants with the appropriate notice period.

Notice to Leave

A 'Notice to Leave' is the official document a landlord must provide to initiate an eviction. For instance, if rent is overdue, the landlord can issue this notice. The notice must state the reason for eviction, and the amount of time you have to vacate. For non-payment of rent, the notice period is seven days.

Breach Notices

Breach notices in Queensland serve as a formal warning to renters that they have broken terms in their rental agreement. Breaches can include issues like unpaid rent, causing damage, or violating community rules. Addressing a breach notice quickly can help prevent an eviction process from starting.

Notice to Remedy Breach

When a breach occurs, landlords must issue a 'Notice to Remedy Breach' form. This notice will outline the issue and provide a timeframe of seven days for tenants to correct it. For example, if you have overdue rent, paying the outstanding amount within these seven days will remedy the breach.

If you're unsure how to handle a breach notice or eviction, consulting with the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) or a local tenant advisory service can provide valuable guidance.

Tenant Rights and Responsibilities

As a tenant, you have rights that protect you from unfair treatment, but you also have responsibilities you must uphold. Understanding these can help avoid conflicts with your landlord. Tenants are responsible for paying rent on time, maintaining the property in good condition, and adhering to the terms of their lease agreement.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

In Queensland, many resources are available to assist renters facing eviction or handling breach notices. The Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) provides support and resources, including mediation services. Additionally, community legal centres and the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT) offer assistance with disputes.


  1. What should I do if I receive an eviction notice? If you receive an eviction notice, it's essential to understand the reason behind it and ensure it follows legal procedures. Consider contacting the RTA for detailed advice.
  2. Can I challenge an eviction? Yes, if you believe the eviction is unfair, you can challenge it through QCAT. You should gather all necessary documentation and evidence to support your case.
  3. How much notice must a landlord give for eviction? The notice period varies depending on the reason for eviction. For rent arrears, it's typically seven days after a Notice to Leave is issued.
  1. How to respond to a Breach Notice in Queensland
    1. Read the Notice Carefully: Review the breach notice thoroughly to understand the alleged violation.
    2. Take Immediate Action: Remedy the breach within the allocated time. For example, pay any overdue rent promptly.
    3. Communicate with Your Landlord: If you disagree with the notice, discuss your concerns openly with your landlord and attempt to resolve the matter amicably.
    4. Seek Mediation if Necessary: Contact the RTA for mediation if a consensus cannot be reached with your landlord.

Understanding your rights and responsibilities under Queensland law, specifically under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008, provides the foundation needed to deal with evictions and breach notices proactively. Ensuring clear communication with your landlord and seeking prompt mediation when disputes arise can help maintain a smooth renting experience.

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.