If you are planning to end your lease in Australia you are not alone. This guide walks you through everything you need to know. We will cover notice rules bonds breaking a lease and more. Let us begin.
Why Ending Your Lease Properly Matters
Ending a lease correctly protects your deposit your rights and your peace of mind. It helps you avoid unexpected costs and disputes. A smooth end also keeps your rental history clean which is important when you rent again.
Key takeaway Following the rules helps you avoid penalties
Know the Type of Lease You Have
- Fixed Term Lease It has a set end date. It may turn into a periodic agreement unless you or the landlord act
- Periodic Month by Month Lease It continues until you or the landlord end it with proper notice
How to End a Fixed Term Lease at Its End Date
If you do not want to renew
- Provide notice at least 30 days before the end date. This prevents the lease from becoming periodic
- Use the proper form such as Notice of Termination or Notice of Intention to Vacate or write in your own words
Ending a Periodic Lease Month by Month
Let your landlord know in writing either by letter email or official form
- Minimum notice in WA is 21 days
- Expect similar periods in other states usually between 14 and 21 days
Breaking a Lease Early What You Must Consider
If you want to leave before the fixed term ends
- Always inform your landlord or agent in writing
- Expect to pay reletting costs such as advertising and time until a new tenant moves in
- You cannot avoid all costs unless you have a valid legal reason listed below
Read More: Tenant Rights in Australia 2025 Guide to Rental Law Reforms and Tips
Valid Reasons to Leave Early With No Penalty or Reduced Cost
Depending on your state you may leave early with minimal or no costs if you have
- Serious safety issues or uninhabitable conditions
- Family or domestic violence
- Disability related needs that the landlord will not accommodate
- You have been offered social or crisis housing
- The landlord did not disclose a plan to sell the property when you moved in
In Victoria for example these reasons may require just 14 days notice often with documentary evidence
Mutual Agreement Is Your Best Friend
If you want to end early speak with your landlord. If you both agree document that in writing. Set the vacate date any compensation and key return. This is usually cheaper and smoother than going through formal procedures.
Handling Bond and Property Condition
- Live up to fair wear and tear only. Damage beyond that like pet stains is not excusable
- Complete an exit condition report before leaving and take photos for your own records
- Give back all keys and fobs
- Keep in mind that new bond laws require the landlord to supply evidence of damage within 14 days of bond claim
Evictions and Warrant of Possession
If a landlord tries to evict you
- They must issue proper notice based on state rules
- If you do not leave they must apply to tribunal or court
- Only police can enforce a Warrant of Possession. Landlords cannot lock you out themselves
New Reforms That Help You as a Tenant
Recent legal changes are making things fairer
- New South Wales No grounds evictions are banned. Landlords need valid reasons to end a lease and must provide evidence. Pets are now easier to keep
- Victoria Reform prohibits no fault evictions caps break lease fees bans hidden fees and limits bond claims unless proper evidence is provided
- South Australia Notice periods extended from 28 to 60 days rent bidding banned and pets allowed with conditions
Questions and Answers
Q What notice do I need to give to end a lease
A It depends on state and lease type but typically 30 days for fixed term ending and 14 to 21 days for periodic leases
Q Can I leave early without penalty
A Yes if you have a good legal reason such as safety or domestic violence and follow the notice rules
Q Do I have to pay anything if I break a lease
A Usually yes unless there is a valid reason or you negotiate something fair with your landlord
Q What if the landlord tries to evict me unfairly
A You can challenge it with your state tribunal or court. Landlords must follow proper steps and cannot change locks illegally
Q How do I handle bond claims
A Leave the property clean complete an exit report return all keys take photos and expect your landlord to provide evidence if they claim any bond deductions
