Queensland rent increase rules at a glance
- ✓Minimum 2 months written notice required
- ✓Maximum once per 12 months per tenancy (changed from 6 months in Sept 2023)
- ✓Fixed-term leases: only if the lease specifies the amount or method
- ✓Notice must be in writing and state the new amount and start date
- ✓You can apply to the RTA for free conciliation within 30 days of the increase taking effect
- ✓QCAT is available if conciliation does not resolve it
Can your landlord increase your rent in Queensland?
Yes. Queensland landlords can increase rent, but only under specific conditions set out in the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008.
The rules apply to general tenancies and moveable dwelling tenancies across Queensland.
- Periodic lease: Your landlord can increase rent with 2 months written notice, no more than once every 12 months.
- Fixed-term lease: Rent can only be increased if your lease agreement specifies the new amount or the method for calculating it. If the lease does not include this, rent cannot change until the fixed term ends.
Queensland changed its rules in September 2023, extending the minimum time between increases from 6 months to 12 months. If your last increase was less than 12 months ago, a new increase is not valid.
How much notice does your landlord have to give?
At least 2 months written notice (approximately 60 days) before the new rent takes effect.
The notice period starts from the day you receive it. If notice was given with less than 2 months, the start date stated in the notice is not valid. You can continue paying the old rent until 2 months have passed from when you received the notice.
How often can rent be increased in Queensland?
Once every 12 months per tenancy. This limit applies from when the last increase took effect, not from when the last notice was given.
If your rent increased in May 2025, the earliest the next increase can take effect is May 2026. A notice sent in March 2026 for an April 2026 start date would not be valid.
What makes a valid rent increase notice in Queensland?
To be valid, a rent increase notice must:
- Be in writing (email is acceptable)
- State the new rent amount in dollars
- State the date the new rent takes effect
- Give at least 2 months from the date you receive it
A verbal notice does not count. A notice that only states a percentage without specifying the new dollar amount is also not valid.
If you are unsure whether a notice you received is valid, contact the Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA).
What if the increase seems excessive?
Queensland's dispute process works differently from other states. You start with the RTA's free conciliation service, not a tribunal.
You must apply to the RTA within 30 days of the date the increase takes effect (not from when you received the notice). This distinction matters: the clock starts when the new rent kicks in, not when you got the letter.
If RTA conciliation does not resolve the dispute, you can escalate to the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal (QCAT). QCAT may charge a filing fee. You do not need a lawyer for either process.
Before you respond, run the numbers
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Calculate my counter-offerHow to respond to a rent increase in Queensland
- Check the notice is valid. Confirm it is in writing, states the new amount and date, and gives at least 2 months. If not, it is not yet enforceable.
- Check the timing. Has it been at least 12 months since your last increase took effect? If not, you can reject the notice on that basis.
- Assess whether it is reasonable. Use the two-benchmark test: CPI alignment and landlord replacement cost. Check comparable listings on Domain or REA for your suburb.
- Negotiate or dispute. Most landlords will negotiate with a reliable tenant who puts forward a specific, reasoned counter-offer. See our negotiation guide and counter-offer email templates. If negotiation does not work, apply to the RTA within 30 days of the date the increase takes effect.
Queensland rent increase rules: summary table
| Rule | Queensland requirement |
|---|---|
| Notice period | 2 months written notice |
| Frequency | Once per 12 months (per tenancy, since Sept 2023) |
| Fixed-term lease | Only if lease specifies amount or method |
| Notice format | In writing, must state new amount and start date |
| First dispute step | RTA conciliation (free) |
| Dispute window | Within 30 days of the increase taking effect |
| Tribunal (if needed) | QCAT (fee may apply) |
| Assessment basis | Market rent for comparable properties |
This is a general guide. Verify current rules with the Residential Tenancies Authority before taking action.
Know the rules. Now use them.
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