As thousands of students commence the academic year across New South Wales, authorities are urging first-time renters to understand their rights before signing a lease.
NSW Fair Trading has reminded students heading to university, TAFE and other vocational education providers to familiarise themselves with rental laws amid strong demand for accommodation.
With more than 431,000 students enrolled at universities across the state and a further 218,465 attending TAFE, many young people will be moving out of home for the first time.
Minister for Better Regulation and Fair Trading Anoulack Chanthivong said the reforms were designed to provide stability and certainty for renters, particularly young people entering the market for the first time.
“Students deserve stability and certainty when securing a home, and the Minns Labor Government’s landmark rental reforms help ensure they get exactly that.”
The consumer watchdog says students should always ensure they have a written lease agreement that clearly outlines rent, payment frequency, bond requirements and responsibilities.
Landlords are required to provide a signed copy of the agreement, including their full contact details and those of any managing agent.
NSW Rental Commissioner Trina Jones said renting as a student was often a rite of passage but understanding rights and obligations early could help prevent disputes.
“Starting tertiary study is an exciting milestone, and for many students it’s the first time living out of home. We want young renters to feel confident, informed and protected when securing accommodation.”
Renters are also being reminded that a rental bond cannot exceed four weeks’ rent and must be lodged with NSW Fair Trading. The bond is refundable at the end of the tenancy provided there is no unpaid rent or damage to the property. Landlords must maintain properties in a safe and liveable condition and complete necessary repairs in line with tenancy laws.
Under recent reforms, landlords and agents must have valid grounds to evict a tenant and follow the proper legal process, with no-grounds evictions now banned in NSW. Students who are unsure about their rights or obligations can contact NSW Fair Trading for advice on bonds, rent, repairs and dispute resolution, while free legal assistance is available through the Tenants Advice and Advocacy Service.
The reminder comes as the Minns Labor Government continues to implement landmark rental reforms aimed at strengthening protections for tenants. The changes limit rent increases to once a year, mandate fee-free ways to pay rent, ban solicited rent bidding and fund a dedicated Rental Taskforce to enforce the laws. A free online Rent Check tool has also been introduced to help tenants assess whether advertised rents are fair.
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