Pet-Friendly Rentals: Your Rights in 2025

Pet ownership in Australian rentals has become significantly easier in 2025, with new laws across multiple states protecting tenants' rights to keep furry family members. These reforms recognize that pets are part of the family, not negotiable accessories.

In NSW, since May 19, 2025, landlords cannot refuse pets without valid reasons. The structured approval process gives landlords specific grounds for refusal, but blanket "no pets" policies are dead. Tenants can challenge unreasonable refusals at NCAT, where the tribunal has final say. Importantly, these laws apply to all existing leases, not just new ones.

South Australia leads the way - landlords cannot unreasonably refuse pets and must respond to applications using the official form. Conditional approvals are allowed (like requiring professional carpet cleaning), but conditions must be reasonable. Western Australia follows similar principles, with landlords needing genuine reasons for refusal, such as property unsuitability or local law restrictions.

Queensland tenants must still request permission, but the RTA provides comprehensive resources supporting pet ownership. Victoria continues strengthening pet rights, with recent reforms making it harder for landlords to say no.

Common valid refusal reasons include property damage risks, incompatible property features (like no fencing), or strata by-laws. However, vague concerns about "potential damage" won't fly anymore. Tenants must still prevent property damage and may face additional bond requirements.

For pet owners, document your pet's behavior, training, and references from previous rentals. At Bondinator, our app helps responsible pet owners maintain detailed records and photo evidence, significantly improving bond return rates. Your pet is family - and finally, the law agrees.

References

• Tenants' Union of NSW - Law Change
• SA CBS - Rental Reforms
• WA Consumer Protection - Rent Reforms