The low-down on renting Down Under

At the start, renting in Australia is the way to go, especially when you don’t know your intended city well. It is a great way to familiarise yourself with an area before you take the plunge and (possibly) buy a house here later.Unlike many other countries, renting Down Under is a fairly straightforward proposition, so long as you follow a few simple rules.

Come prepared

Research. Google. Talk to locals, or – if you are doing your research in advance from your home country – ask people who have visited. First-hand info is worth its weight in gold!

Once you have identified an area you like, you can get down to the business of actually looking at properties. Most rentals will be advertised online on websites like Domain.com.au and you can generally express your interest via an online form sent directly to the agent. Another approach is to visit local agencies in person, once you arrive. That way, the agent can give you the most up-to-date listings – and get to know you face-to-face as well!

Once you have found a property to look at, get everything ready for the application. At the very least you will need:

• rental references (written ones are best)
• photocopies of ID (passports, driving licences)
• proof of income or savings in an Australian bank account
• proof of employment.

The early bird …

Gets their foot (and application) in the door first, plus valuable chit-chat time with the agent, which can help sway things in your favour. If you like the place, apply on the spot (the agent will usually have forms ready to go).

You’re in!

If your application is successful, the next step is to ensure you secure the property with a deposit (usually a week’s rent). Your landlord/agent should provide the following:

• Lease/tenancy agreement (read carefully before signing)
• Condition report (very important as this will prevent you being hit with any costs for repairs for damage not caused by you!)
• Bond form – to be submitted to NSW Fair Trading/equivalent department in your state or territory
• Keys

There should be no extra or ‘hidden’ fees such as:

• More than two weeks rent in advance (unless you want to)
• More than four weeks rent for the bond
• Cost of ‘preparing’ the lease
• A charge for the supply of keys and security devices to each tenant named on the lease.

Finally, the Australian Government website has a wide range of useful links and documents for the recently arrived and more detailed information on your rights as a tenant in each state or territory.