It was announced by NSW Government earlier today that several more key changes to the RTA are set to commence on 19 May 2025.
- Ending no-grounds evictions – Owners will be required to provide a valid reason to end all lease types. There will be longer notice periods that will apply in some cases and tenants who secure a new home after receiving an eviction notice will also have rights to end their lease early (for instance, if they find a new property to rent).
- New rules for pets in rental homes – Tenants can apply to keep a pet, with landlords only able to refuse for specific reasons, such as owner-occupation or council restrictions. A standard application process will be introduced, with an approved application form to be used, and approvals will be automatic without conditions if no response is given by landlords or their agents within 21 days.
- Fee-free ways to pay rent – Tenants will have access to free, electronic payment options like direct bank transfer, preventing additional fees that can increase rental costs.
Further reforms, including stronger privacy protections for tenants and the introduction of a portable rental bond scheme are expected later in 2025.
At REINSW, we are committed to continue the fight for our members while keeping our members fully informed.
We have written to NSW Fair Trading seeking clarification on the details of the Regulations and other key timings.
It’s even more critical that agents attend the REINSW Mastering the NSW Rental Reforms Event on the 29th of April to learn how to implement these reforms from the 19th of May 2025.
If you have any questions about these changes or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to the REINSW Helpline on (02) 9264 2343 or via email at [email protected].