Finding Accommodation in Australia
Securing somewhere to live is one of the first priorities after you arrive. Australia's rental market moves quickly, so understanding how applications work before you land will give you a real advantage.
Quick answer
Most new arrivals start with short-term accommodation, then apply for a long-term rental through agencies like Domain and realestate.com.au. You'll typically need ID, proof of income, references and a bond of around four weeks' rent.
Where do you search for rentals in Australia?
The two dominant listing platforms are realestate.com.au and Domain, which between them carry the vast majority of advertised rentals. Most properties are managed by real estate agents rather than private landlords, and inspections are usually held at set times that you book online.
Set up email alerts for your target suburbs and price range as soon as you can, because well-priced properties in popular areas are often leased within days of listing.
What does renting cost in 2025–26?
Rents rose through 2025 and into early 2026. The figures below are medians across all dwelling types, so a one-bedroom apartment typically sits below the figure and a family house above it. Budgeting against your target city's median is a sensible starting point.
Why this table disagrees with other rent figures
These are all-dwelling medians for early 2026. Our capital city comparison uses the March 2026 quarter and quotes house rents separately, so it runs higher for some cities — Sydney at $824 rather than $780. Neither is wrong: different baskets, different quarters. It is also why comparing a rent figure from one site against one from another tells you very little.
| City | Median weekly rent |
|---|---|
| Sydney | $780 |
| Perth | $730 |
| Brisbane | $680 |
| Darwin | $680 |
| Canberra | $640 |
| Adelaide | $620 |
| Melbourne | $590 |
| Hobart | $590 |
What documents do you need to apply?
Australian rental applications are competitive and usually require 100 points of identification, so having your paperwork ready lets you apply on the spot after an inspection. New arrivals without an Australian rental history can strengthen an application with extra savings evidence or by offering rent in advance.
- 100 points of ID (passport, visa grant, and a driver's licence if you have one)
- Proof of income — payslips or a signed employment contract
- Bank statements showing savings
- Rental references from previous landlords or agents
- Character references where rental history is limited
How much should you budget upfront?
Expect to pay a rental bond — capped at and typically equal to four weeks' rent, lodged with your state's bond authority — plus the first two to four weeks' rent in advance. On a $650-per-week property that's around $3,900 before you've bought a stick of furniture.
Budget these upfront costs on top of your first month's living expenses, and keep the funds liquid so you can move quickly when an application is approved.
How does the leasing process work?
After you apply and are approved, you'll sign a residential tenancy agreement (usually 6 or 12 months), pay your bond and advance rent, and complete an entry condition report documenting the property's state. Photograph everything at move-in — this protects your bond when you eventually leave.
Your bond is held by an independent state authority, not the agent, and is refunded at the end of the tenancy provided the property is returned in good condition with rent paid up to date.
Sources & further reading
Figures are indicative and were last reviewed on 10 May 2026. Always confirm current fees and requirements with the relevant official authority before acting.
Frequently asked questions
Can I rent before I arrive in Australia?
It's difficult to secure a long-term lease without attending an inspection, and agents are wary of approving tenants sight-unseen. Most people book short-term accommodation first, then apply for a long-term rental once on the ground.
What is a rental bond?
A bond is a security deposit, typically four weeks' rent, held by an independent state government bond authority. It's refunded at the end of your tenancy provided the property is left in good condition and rent is paid up to date.
How can I compete without an Australian rental history?
Offer a complete application with strong savings evidence, overseas references, an employment contract, and consider offering a few weeks' rent in advance. A well-presented application often beats a thin local one.
How long are most leases?
Fixed-term leases of 6 or 12 months are standard. After the fixed term, the tenancy usually continues on a periodic (month-to-month) basis unless a new fixed term is signed.
Related guides
Chosen because they cover the next decision after this one. For everything else, see all moving to Australia guides.
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