How Often Can You Increase Rent in Brisbane? A Guide for Landlords

Navigating rent increases in Brisbane’s competitive rental market requires landlords to balance market demand, legislative compliance, and tenant retention. With Queensland’s rental laws now restricting rent increases to once per year, understanding the rules, best practices, and strategic considerations is essential for property investors looking to maximise returns.

This guide outlines when and how landlords can increase rent in Brisbane, along with key strategies to ensure your rental pricing remains competitive.

Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Investors should consult the relevant professional for guidance on their specific circumstances.

What Are the New Rent Increase Rules in Queensland?

As of June 2024, Queensland rental laws have changed to limit rent increases to once every 12 months per property – not per tenancy.

Key Rent Increase Regulations:

A landlord can only increase rent once every 12 months.
This rule applies to the property, not the tenant, meaning a new lease does not reset the 12-month period.
Rent increases must be clearly documented in the lease agreement.
Tenants can request written proof of the last rent increase, which must be provided within 14 days.

Failure to comply with these regulations may result in rental disputes, financial penalties, or voided increases.

When Can Landlords Legally Increase Rent?

For Fixed-Term Tenancies:

A rent increase can only occur if the lease agreement states the date and amount of the increase.
If the lease does not specify an increase, rent remains fixed until the term expires.
Landlords must provide tenants with at least two months’ written notice before a scheduled rent increase takes effect.

For Periodic (Month-to-Month) Tenancies:

Rent can be increased once per 12 months with at least two months’ written notice.
The increase must be reasonable and in line with market conditions.

What Happens If You Buy a Property with Existing Tenants?

If you purchase a rental property in Brisbane with tenants already in place, you cannot immediately increase the rent.

The 12-month rule still applies, meaning you must check when the last rent increase occurred.
The lease agreement remains valid, so you can only adjust rent at renewal (if legally permitted).
If the previous landlord did not track rent increases, you may need to wait before applying an increase.

How to Determine the Right Rent Increase

Rent increases must reflect market conditions, demand, and property value, while remaining compliant with Queensland rental laws.

✔ Check Brisbane’s Median Rents:

As of 2024, Brisbane’s average combined asking rent is $676 per week, reflecting a 3.6% annual increase (CoreLogic, 2024).
Suburbs with low vacancy rates (under 2%) may justify higher rent increases.

✔ Compare Similar Properties in Your Area:

Research rental listings in your suburb and postcode to ensure your property remains competitively priced.
Consider the size, condition, and features of comparable properties.

✔ Factor in Property Upgrades & Maintenance Costs:

If you’ve recently renovated or improved your property, a higher rent increase may be justified.
Consider whether higher rent will offset increased holding costs, rates, and maintenance expenses.

✔ Consult a Property Manager:

Professional property managers can provide detailed rental market insights and help set the right price.
They ensure compliance with legislative requirements while balancing tenant retention strategies.

How to Communicate a Rent Increase to Tenants

Rent increases can sometimes lead to tenant dissatisfaction or turnover, so clear communication is key.

✔ Provide Written Notice:

Use an official RTA-approved rent increase notice to ensure compliance.
Clearly state the new rent amount, effective date, and reasoning.

✔ Be Transparent About Market Conditions:

Inform tenants why the increase is occurring, such as rising market rates, inflation, or property upgrades.

✔ Consider Long-Term Tenants & Lease Renewals:

If a good tenant has been in place for several years, a moderate increase may be more beneficial than risking vacancy.
Offering a lease renewal at a fair rate can encourage long-term occupancy.

✔ Be Open to Negotiation:

Some tenants may request a smaller increase
Consider a gradual increase over multiple lease periods to maintain a positive tenant relationship.

What Happens If a Tenant Disputes a Rent Increase?

Under Queensland rental laws, tenants have the right to challenge rent increases they believe are excessive.

Tenants can request evidence supporting the increase (e.g., market rent comparisons).
If they believe the increase is unreasonable, they can apply to QCAT (Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal) to review the decision.
If the increase violates legal notice periods or exceeds the once-per-12-month rule, it may be voided.

Best Practices for Brisbane Landlords to Maximise Rental Returns

To ensure compliant and successful rent increases, landlords should:

✔ Stay up to date with market trends – Monitor Brisbane rental price movements regularly.
✔ Plan rent increases strategically – Gradual increases are often better for tenant retention.
✔ Document everything – Ensure lease agreements include clear terms.
✔ Work with a property manager – Professional managers can handle rent reviews, tenant negotiations, and compliance.

Need Help Managing Rent Increases & Tenant Retention?

Navigating rent increases in Brisbane’s evolving rental market can be challenging, but expert property management ensures legal compliance and maximised returns.

At Worth Real Estate, we specialise in:

Rental price optimisation to keep your property competitive.
Tenant communication & lease management for stress-free rent reviews.
Compliance & dispute resolution to assist in insulating landlords from legal risks.

If you need assistance with setting rent, lease renewals, or property management, contact us today for a consultation and rental appraisal.

Sources & Data References

CoreLogic Australia – 2024 Brisbane Property Market Report
Queensland Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) – Rent Increase Guidelines
Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) – Rental Market & Inflation Data