Rent Increases and Compliance in Queensland

4 MIN READ | By Danielle Clark | Updated on February 5, 2025

Rent increases are one of the most sensitive aspects of property management for both landlords and tenants. In Queensland, they are also strictly regulated under the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (Qld). 

Getting the process wrong can result in an invalid increase, disputes through the RTA or QCAT, and unnecessary delays to income. Understanding when, how, and on what basis rent can be increased is essential to staying compliant and maintaining positive tenancies. 

Here’s what Queensland landlords need to know. 

How Often Can Rent Be Increased in Queensland? 

Under section 91 of the Act, rent can only be increased once every 12 months per premises, not per tenancy. 

This applies: 

• regardless of whether the tenancy is fixed term or periodic 

• even if a new tenancy agreement is entered into for the same property 

If rent has been increased for the premises within the previous 12 months, another increase is not permitted, even if the tenant changes. 

Rent Increases Must Be Market-Based 

Queensland legislation requires rent increases to be reasonable. Under section 94 of the Act, a tenant may apply to QCAT if they believe a proposed increase is excessive. 

When assessing whether an increase is excessive, QCAT may consider: 

• rent charged for comparable properties in the area 

• the condition and inclusions of the property 

• whether any improvements or upgrades have been made 

• the state of repair and maintenance 

• the timing of the increase 

For this reason, rent reviews should always be supported by current market evidence, not blanket percentage increases or assumptions. 

How Rent Increases Must Be Given 

Under section 92 of the Act, landlords must provide at least two (2) months’ written notice of a rent increase. 

A valid rent increase notice must: 

• be in writing 

• clearly state the new rent amount 

• specify the date the new rent takes effect 

• be issued with the correct notice period 

If these requirements are not met, the increase may be invalid and unenforceable. 

Verbal discussions, text messages, or informal conversations do not meet the legislative requirements on their own. 

Common Rent Increase Compliance Mistakes 

Some of the most common issues we see include: 

• increasing rent within 12 months of the last increase 

• providing insufficient notice 

• assuming rent can increase automatically at lease renewal 

• setting increases without reference to current market data 

These mistakes can delay rent increases, create disputes, and strain landlord–tenant relationships. 

How LongView Helps Queensland Landlords Stay Compliant 

At LongView, rent increases are managed through a structured and compliant process. Our Queensland team: 

• tracks rent increase eligibility under the Act 

• conducts evidence-based market reviews 

• ensures notices comply with RTA timeframes and requirements 

• communicates clearly and professionally with tenants 

• minimises the risk of disputes or invalid increases 

Our goal is to help landlords maximise returns while remaining fully compliant and maintaining strong, long-term tenancies.