SquareLeaseSquareLease
HomeToolsCompensation & Penalty Guide

Compensation & Penalty Guide

Find out what compensation or penalties may be available when a landlord breaches your rights.

Select your state and the breach type to see compensation and penalty information.

General information only — not legal advice. Penalty amounts change each financial year. Last updated: January 2026.

Steps before applying to tribunal

  1. 1Document the breach with dates, times and evidence
  2. 2Write to the landlord or agent requesting they fix the issue
  3. 3Keep copies of all correspondence
  4. 4If unresolved, contact your state authority or tribunal
  5. 5Lodge your application within the time limit
  6. 6Bring all evidence to your hearing

Free legal help

NSW Tenants' UnionTenants VictoriaTenants QueenslandTenants WALegal Aid (all states)

Related tools

Rent reduction calculatorUrgent repair classifierDomestic violence rightsMould & habitability checker

Tenancy law changes constantly.

Get one email a month: new tribunal decisions, rent increase rule changes, what's coming in your state. Free, unsubscribe any time.