How Queensland’s New Rental Laws Will Impact Rental Management

Queensland’s sweeping 2025 rental reforms are transforming the landscape for landlords, tenants, and rental managers alike. The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation and Other Legislation Amendment Act 2024, which updates the 2008 Act, officially came into effect on 1 May 2025. These changes are designed to create a more balanced, transparent system across rental management in Queensland, reshaping how we rent, apply, and live in leased homes. While some in the industry hail the reforms as long overdue, others fear that stricter rules could deter landlords and tighten the already-pressured housing market. 

Whether you’re a property owner, investor, or part of a rental property management team, staying compliant with these new laws is essential. From application processes to entry restrictions and data handling, these reforms touch every part of managing the property. 

1. Standardised Rental Applications for Consistency

Historically, rental applications have varied widely, causing confusion and privacy concerns. The new laws require property managers to: 

• Use an approved rental application form. 

• Collect standardised data: name, employment, income, tenancy history, etc. 

• Request no more than two supporting documents. 

• Offer at least two application methods one not reliant on third-party tech. 

While tenants gain greater privacy, rental managers now have less room for discretion, placing more pressure on them to identify quality tenants with fewer data points.

2. Transparency in Financial Arrangements

Any commissions or financial incentives received by rental managers via third-party rent payment platforms must now be disclosed to tenants.  Though this may seem like a minor adjustment, it promotes accountability in rental property management and helps establish trust.  Learn more from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) on fair trading and disclosure requirements.   

3. Simplifying Rental Modifications

Tenants can now submit modification requests via an official form, with landlords required to respond within 28 days. This reform: 

• Encourages customisation of rental homes (e.g., wall hangings, gardens). 

• Ensures landlords can impose reasonable conditions (e.g., restoration). 

• Requires forwarding of requests to body corporate when necessary. 

These clearer processes help boost tenant satisfaction and reduce turnover key objectives for successful rental management.   

4. Privacy and Entry Reforms

The notice period for landlords and rental managers to enter a property increases from 24 to 48 hours (except in emergencies). This gives tenants more privacy but could delay urgent maintenance responses. 

5. Identity Document Protection

New rules have been introduced to curb identity theft risks: 

• Renters can present ID without it being copied unless they give consent. 

• Data from unsuccessful applicants must be destroyed within 3 months. 

• Data from past tenancies must be destroyed within 7 years. 

These changes make rental management in Queensland more privacy-conscious and put pressure on rental property management teams to update their data practices.  Read about data protection standards from the OAIC (Office of the Australian Information Commissioner) for further compliance guidance. 

6. Entry Limits After Lease Termination

Once a tenancy ends, property access is capped at two visits per week (excluding emergencies). This reduces tenant disruption while allowing enough access for: 

• Repairs and maintenance 

• Showcasing the property to new tenants 

It’s a delicate balancing act for managing the property, but one that supports a more respectful and efficient process.   

A Cultural Shift in Rental Management

Beyond the legal updates, these reforms reflect a philosophical change in rental management in Queensland one that redefines renters as long-term participants rather than short-term guests. For rental property management firms and landlords, the reforms present both a challenge and an opportunity to modernise practices.  For rental managers and landlords alike, the 2025 reforms are more than a compliance checklist they’re a signal of where the Queensland rental market is heading.  At Blink Property, we view these changes as a chance to evolve and better serve both tenants and investors. Our approach to managing the property is grounded in sustainability, transparency, and trust.  By understanding these changes and adapting early, you not only protect your investments but also position your rental property management strategy for long-term success.