New Pet Legislation

New Pet Rules Take Effect – 1 December 2025

From 1 December, the new Residential Tenancies (Pets) Amendment Act officially takes effect. These reforms mark one of the biggest shifts we’ve seen in tenancy law for some time.

Here’s a summary of the key points:

Landlords can only decline a tenant’s pet request if they have a reasonable ground (for example, the property’s size, shared living setup, or unsuitability for pets).

Tenants are fully responsible for any pet-related damage beyond fair wear and tear.

Landlords can attach reasonable conditions when giving consent – such as specifying cleaning or care expectations.

A pet bond of up to two weeks’ rent can be charged – but only one pet bond may be held at any time.

A pet bond cannot be charged for existing pets permitted before the 1st of December

Fill in your details below to request your complimentary copy of our updated Ray White Pet Guide – outlining how to manage these changes confidently as a landlord.