Staying informed is key to proactive property management. With major changes to Queensland rental laws taking effect from the 1st of May 2025, it’s crucial you understand what’s changing, why it matters and how we’re here to help guide you through it.
Shaped by decades of industry experience, we’re committed to keeping our clients a step ahead. Keep reading to find out all you need to know.
Standardised rental application forms
From the 1st of May 2025, property managers and owners must use official Residential Tenancies Authority (RTA) application forms.
- Form 22 – for general tenancies and movable dwelling tenancies.
- Form R22 – for rooming accommodation.
You must offer applicants at least two ways to submit applications, with one method being free and easily accessible.
Why this matters
This change ensures fairness and transparency, and protects both tenants and landlords by creating a standardised process. At MacWell, we’re already seamlessly integrating these new application requirements into our workflows.
Limits on personal information collected
You’ll now only be able to request information relevant to assessing an applicant’s suitability. Personal information must be securely stored and then disposed of within regulated timeframes.
Why this matters
These protections ensure we remain compliant with privacy legislation and enhance tenant trust while reducing liability risks.
Disclosure of financial benefits
If a payment method provides any financial benefit to the property manager or owner, this must now be disclosed upfront.
Why this matters
This builds greater transparency between agents, landlords and tenants. We’ve always prioritised integrity and open communication, so we’re fully aligned with this reform.
Extended entry notice period
The minimum notice period for property entry has increased from 24 to 48 hours (except in emergencies). Rooming accommodation rules are also tightening, e.g., 24 hours’ notice for cleaning.
Why this matters
This change helps support tenant privacy while still allowing timely maintenance and inspections. Our team will update all procedures and systems to reflect this adjustment.
Entry limits during end-of-tenancy
If a notice to end tenancy has been issued, property access is now capped at two visits per seven days, except under special circumstances.
Why this matters
This ensures tenants aren’t overwhelmed during the vacating process and helps foster goodwill, which is particularly important in retaining good tenants until the end of the lease.
Requests for fixtures and structural changes
Tenants must now use Form 23 to seek approval for attaching fixtures or making structural changes. Landlords have 28 days to respond.
Why this matters
A structured process improves clarity and record-keeping. We’ll ensure all landlord responses are timely and aligned with legislative expectations.
How Macwell is supporting you
Our team has been trained and briefed on all legislative changes, and we’re already embedding them into our property management systems and processes.
Compliance should be proactive, not reactive. These changes are more than just rules, they’re opportunities to build relationships, protect your investment and work with greater transparency and professionalism.
As always, our team is here to answer your questions and help you thrive in a changing environment. If you’d like to speak to your property manager about how these changes affect your property, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help.
