Tenant Protections for Rent and Bonds in Tasmania

Renting in Tasmania comes with specific rights and responsibilities. Understanding these can help protect you from common rental disputes, especially regarding rent, bonds, and holding deposits. The Residential Tenancy Act 1997 governs these areas in Tasmania, ensuring both tenants and landlords meet their obligations fairly.

Understanding Rent Payments in Tasmania

Rent is one of the key issues to understand in your leasing agreement. Under the Tasmanian legislation, landlords must provide you with receipts for all rent payments unless you pay directly into a financial institution’s account via direct deposit. It's also important to know the regulations around when and how your rent can be increased.

How Rent Increases Work

  • Your landlord must give you at least 60 days’ notice of any rent increase.
  • Rent cannot be increased during a fixed-term lease unless specified in the agreement.
  • You can challenge a rent increase if you feel it is unreasonable.

Dealing with Rental Bonds

Rental bonds act as security for the property owner if you breach the lease agreement. In Tasmania, your rental bond must be lodged with the Rental Deposit Authority (RDA).

Lodging Your Bond

  • Ensure your bond is lodged with the RDA within 3 working days of receipt by the landlord.
  • Both you and your landlord will receive confirmation from the RDA once the bond is lodged.
  • At the end of the tenancy, bond refunds are processed through the RDA once both parties agree on the amounts.

Handling Holding Deposits

A holding deposit is paid when you're interested in renting a property but haven't yet signed a lease. This shows your commitment to taking the property. However, regulations ensure your interests are protected.

Key Points about Holding Deposits

  • You should receive a receipt upon payment.
  • If the lease agreement is not signed, you are entitled to have this deposit refunded.
Before signing any documents or paying deposits, thoroughly review all terms and conditions to avoid misunderstandings.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

If you face issues with your rent, bond, or any deposit, it's crucial to seek the right advice:


  1. Can a landlord in Tasmania increase rent whenever they want?

    No, landlords must provide 60 days' notice and can't increase rent during a fixed-term lease unless stated otherwise in the contract.

  2. What is a rental bond, and why do I need to pay it?

    A rental bond is security for the landlord in case you breach your contract. It must be lodged with the Rental Deposit Authority to protect both parties.

  3. What happens if my holding deposit is not returned?

    If a lease is not signed, your holding deposit should be refunded. If issues arise, you may need to contact the Consumer, Building and Occupational Services for a resolution.

  1. How do I dispute a rent increase?
    1. Review the notice for compliance with the Residential Tenancy Act 1997.
    2. Formulate your argument highlighting reasons the increase is unreasonable.
    3. Submit your dispute to the Consumer, Building and Occupational Services using the appropriate forms.

Key takeaways for Tasmanian renters include understanding the timelines for rent increases, ensuring your rental bond is lodged correctly, and knowing your rights regarding holding deposits. Always keep documentation to support your case in any disputes.


1 Fair Trading Act 1987 (Cth)
2 Residential Tenancy Act 1997
3 Consumer, Building and Occupational Services
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.