2025 Complete Guide to Renting in Australia

A Step-by-Step Handbook for New Migrants and International Students**

For new migrants and international students arriving in Australia, renting a home is often the very first step toward building a new life. Australia offers a transparent rental system, strong legal protections, and a standardized leasing process. However, for newcomers unfamiliar with the market, every stage—from searching and inspection to application and moving in—comes with important details and potential risks. Without proper preparation, one may not only waste time but also face unnecessary financial losses or disputes over rights.

This guide provides a practical, data-driven breakdown of the entire renting process in Australia in 2025, helping you settle smoothly and confidently.

1. Understanding the Current Australian Rental Market

Australia’s rental market is transparent yet extremely competitive. Most legitimate rental listings are centralized on major online platforms or released by licensed real estate agents. Rent is typically listed per week rather than monthly.

According to the latest nationwide data for 2025:

• The national average rent has increased by over 8% year-on-year

• Sydney CBD 2-bedroom apartments now average AUD 780–880 per week

• Melbourne CBD 2-bedroom apartments rent for around AUD 650–750 per week

• Brisbane’s 2-bedroom units have reached AUD 620–700 per week

• Adelaide and Perth remain relatively affordable at AUD 520–620 per week for 2-bedroom units

The market continues to show low vacancy rates and extremely high competition, especially with the return of international students and steady migrant inflow. It’s common to see dozens of applications for a single listing in major cities.

Popular rental platforms include:

• Domain.com.au

• realestate.com.au

• Flatmates.com.au

• Facebook Marketplace & rental groups

Prospective tenants should set clear search criteria based on proximity to school, workplace, transport, and personal budget to improve efficiency and chances of success.

2. Essential Preparations Before Renting: Your Documents Are Your Competitive Edge

In Australia, landlords and agents prioritize a tenant’s financial stability and reliability. For newcomers who lack local rental history, strong documentation becomes even more important.

Common required documents include:

• Passport & valid visa

• Proof of income or bank savings

• Student ID or letter of offer

• Reference letter from previous landlord or a Rental Resume

• Employment contract (if already employed)

Key rental terms you must understand:

• Bond (security deposit): typically 4 weeks of rent

• Lease term: usually 6 or 12 months

• Condition Report: an official record of the property’s condition, used for bond return assessment

When budgeting, always clarify:

• Whether utilities (water, electricity, internet) are included

• Additional fees (if any) such as council rates or building management fees

3. Online Search and Inspection Process

Most renters begin their journey on Domain or realestate.com.au. Once you find potential homes, you can book an inspection directly online.

During inspections, check:

• Signs of water leaks or mould

• Functionality of taps, hot water, and exhaust systems

• Condition of flooring or carpet

• Security features, locks, and smoke alarms

For shared accommodation, confirm:

• Housemates’ work schedules and lifestyle

• Rules for common spaces

• How bills are split

Inspections are crucial not only for assessing the property but also for showing agents that you are a serious applicant.

4. Submitting a Rental Application

If you like the property, you can submit a rental application online. Approval depends largely on:

• Fully completed and accurate forms

• Strong financial proof

• Reliable references

• A concise self-introduction explaining your occupation, income, and rental purpose

In high-demand areas, agents may receive 10–30 applications for a single listing. Proactively following up can significantly increase your chances.

5. Signing the Lease and Paying the Bond: Establishing a Legal Agreement

After approval, you will enter the leasing stage. Before signing, carefully review:

• Lease duration

• Notice period for ending the tenancy

• Pet policy

• Subletting rules

• Rent increase conditions

Standard procedures include:

• Paying the Bond (held by the state government, not the landlord)

• Paying the first 2–4 weeks of rent

• Receiving a copy of the Tenancy Agreement and receipts

Bond deposits are government-regulated, ensuring tenant protection.

6. Moving In & Reviewing the Condition Report

On move-in day, you must check and sign the Condition Report. This document determines whether your bond will be returned when you move out.

Recommendations:

• Photograph every room thoroughly

• Report existing issues within 3–5 days

• Keep all communication records

Upon moving in, arrange setup for:

• Electricity, gas, water

• Internet

• Testing all appliances and locks

• Reporting any safety concerns immediately

7. Tenant Rights and Responsibilities During the Lease

During the tenancy, you must:

• Pay rent on time

• Maintain the property reasonably

• Report major repair issues in writing

Australian law distinguishes between:

• Wear & Tear (normal usage)

• Damage (tenant-caused issues)

These have different cost responsibilities. Reasonable use is legally protected.

8. Ending the Lease and Bond Refund

To end the tenancy, written notice is required (usually 14–28 days). Before vacating, professional cleaning is highly recommended, especially for:

• Carpet steam cleaning

• Kitchen grease removal

• Bathroom limescale

The final inspection will be compared against the original Condition Report. If no issues arise, the bond is typically refunded within 7–14 working days.

Conclusion: Renting Is More Than Finding a Home—It’s the Start of Your New Life

For newcomers to Australia, renting is more than securing a place to stay—it is the first true step toward becoming part of the local community. Australia’s rental system offers strong protections, and as long as tenants understand the rules, prepare well, and communicate openly, the process is clear, safe, and manageable.

In today’s high-rent and competitive environment, professional knowledge and thorough preparation are your strongest advantages for finding the right home quickly and confidently.