Bond maximums at a glance
All Australian states and territories cap the amount of bond a landlord can charge. Charging more than the legal maximum is an offence.
| State | Maximum bond | Threshold/notes |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | 4 weeks rent | No threshold — always 4 weeks |
| VIC | 4 weeks rent if rent ≤ $900/wk | Unlimited if rent > $900/wk |
| QLD | 4 weeks rent | No threshold — always 4 weeks |
| WA | 4 weeks rent (unfurnished) | 6 weeks if furnished or rent > $1,200/wk |
| SA | 4 weeks rent | No threshold — always 4 weeks |
| ACT | 4 weeks rent | No threshold — always 4 weeks |
| TAS | 4 weeks rent | No threshold — always 4 weeks |
| NT | 4 weeks rent | No threshold — always 4 weeks |
NSW — 4 weeks rent
In NSW, the maximum bond is 4 weeks rent, regardless of the rental amount. This is set by s 159 of the Residential Tenancies Act 2010. There is no provision for a higher bond even for high-end properties. A landlord who charges more than 4 weeks rent as bond commits an offence.
VIC — threshold applies
Victoria has a tiered system. If the weekly rent is $900 or less, the maximum bond is 4 weeks rent. If the weekly rent exceeds $900, there is no cap on the bond amount. This is set out in s 32 of the Residential Tenancies Act 1997.
The $900/week threshold was set in 2021. At the time, this covered the vast majority of Victorian rentals, though the proportion has decreased as rents have risen.
QLD — 4 weeks rent
Queensland's maximum is 4 weeks rent under s 146 of the Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008. For rooming accommodation, different rules may apply.
WA — furnished properties and high-rent
Western Australia allows a higher bond for furnished properties and for properties with weekly rent exceeding $1,200. For unfurnished properties under $1,200/week, the maximum is 4 weeks rent. For furnished properties or those above $1,200/week, the maximum is 6 weeks rent.
Rent in advance vs. bond
Bond is different from rent in advance. Landlords can charge both bond AND rent in advance, but each has its own legal cap. Rent in advance is usually limited to 2–4 weeks depending on the state. The two amounts are held separately and serve different purposes.
Some landlords try to disguise extra bond as 'pet bond' or other fees. Pet bonds are only permitted in WA (max $260). In all other states, any additional security deposit on top of the statutory bond maximum is unlawful.
What if you were charged too much?
If you were charged more bond than the legal maximum, you are entitled to a refund of the excess. Contact your state tenancy authority. You can also make a complaint to the authority, and in some states the landlord faces a financial penalty for overcharging.
This guide provides general information based on current Australian tenancy legislation. It is not legal advice. Always verify with the relevant state tenancy authority or a qualified professional for your specific situation. Last verified: January 2026.