What do I need to bring to renew a tenancy or lease in Australia?

The current residential tenancy agreement; Written proposal or renewal offer from the landlord or agent; Government-issued identification for personal verification; Proof of income or updated financial information if requested.

What commonly goes wrong with a tenancy or lease renewal in Australia?

Failure to sign a new agreement may result in the lease automatically rolling into a periodic agreement, which may have different notice periods for ending the tenancy. Rent increases must comply with state-specific legal limits on how often and by how much rent can be raised. Ensure the renewal is documented in writing, as verbal agreements can be difficult to enforce if disputes arise.

Guides · Australia

Tenancy or lease renewal in Australia

Written from published rules on 27 August 2026. Not monitored for changes since. A starting point, not official advice — confirm anything that matters with State and Territory Consumer Affairs or Residential Tenancies Authorities.

Renewing a residential tenancy agreement in Australia involves either signing a new fixed-term agreement or transitioning to a periodic (month-to-month) agreement. Most states allow for a formal extension of an existing lease provided both the landlord and tenant reach a written agreement.

Your timing

It is standard practice for parties to discuss renewal intentions at least 60 to 90 days before the current lease ends, as some jurisdictions require a specific notice period for non-renewal or rent increases.

Start 60 days ahead

This provides sufficient time to negotiate terms, prepare documentation, and meet legal notice requirements for rent adjustments.

The process

1Contact the landlord or property manager to express interest in renewing the lease.
2Discuss and agree upon the terms of the new agreement, including the duration and any proposed rent changes.
3Review the proposed tenancy agreement document to ensure all terms align with the verbal agreement.
4Sign the new tenancy agreement or lease renewal form.
5Ensure both parties receive a copy of the signed document for their records.

What to bring

The current residential tenancy agreement
Written proposal or renewal offer from the landlord or agent
Government-issued identification for personal verification
Proof of income or updated financial information if requested

Who handles it

State and Territory Consumer Affairs or Residential Tenancies Authorities

There is typically no administrative fee for renewing a lease, though rent amounts are subject to market conditions and must be confirmed with the landlord.

What commonly goes wrong

Failure to sign a new agreement may result in the lease automatically rolling into a periodic agreement, which may have different notice periods for ending the tenancy.
Rent increases must comply with state-specific legal limits on how often and by how much rent can be raised.
Ensure the renewal is documented in writing, as verbal agreements can be difficult to enforce if disputes arise.

Sources

This guide is based on one official source.

Tenancy laws and rights by state (Australia.gov.au) australia.gov.au

Tenancy or lease renewal in other countries

Often renewed together

Don't rely on remembering

Add this document to Duratum and we'll tell you when to start, and remind you before it matters.

Track my Tenancy or lease