As of 1 May 2025, major changes to Queensland’s tenancy laws will take effect. These reforms are designed to improve fairness, transparency, and security for tenants and property managers alike. As a property manager or agency in Queensland, it’s essential to understand these changes and prepare your team accordingly to ensure compliance.
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the key reforms and how OurProperty is making platform updates to help you navigate these changes seamlessly.
Key Changes to Queensland Tenancy Laws
The upcoming reforms impact various areas of property management, from tenancy applications and identity verification to data protection, entry requirements and property modifications. Here’s an overview of the key changes:
1. Tenancy Applications
The new law introduces Form 22, a standardised tenancy application form. From 1 May 2025, all tenancy applications must be submitted on this new form. Property managers will also be required to provide two ways for applicants to complete the form, one of which must be non-restrictive (such as a paper application or an editable PDF sent via email). Importantly, this new form also limits the types of questions property managers can ask tenants, ensuring a more equitable and respectful application process.
2. Verification of Identity
Under the new reforms, property managers will only be able to request two forms of identification from tenants, one each for:
- Verifying the applicant’s identity
- Assessing their financial capacity to pay rent
- Evaluating their suitability through references
Moreover, tenants can now opt to only show their identification without it being recorded. Property managers will be allowed to view it but cannot write down sensitive details, such as driver’s licence numbers or passport information, unless tenants provide written consent.
3. Modifications to Properties
Another significant change is related to tenant requests for modifications. If a tenant wishes to make structural changes or attach fixtures to the property, they must submit the request on Form 23. The property owner must respond within 28 days. Additionally, any approval for modifications must be drafted by the owner or a solicitor, ensuring the legal integrity of lease clauses related to modifications.
4. Data Protection
Data protection is also getting an overhaul under these new reforms. Property managers will be required to securely store and protect tenant data, with particular attention to two-factor authentication (2FA) for all users. Another key requirement is the destruction of personal data within three months for applicants who don’t proceed to become tenants. There are exceptions if written consent is given to store data for longer periods, but property managers must ensure compliance with this data retention policy.
5. Entry Requirements
The rules around property access are also being adjusted. The notice period for entering a property has been extended to 48 hours (up from the previous 24 hours). Additionally, property managers can now use one entry notice for multiple purposes. For example, a property inspection and a tradesperson’s visit can be covered by a single notice.
However, new limitations are being introduced for Form 12 and Form 13 notices. If these forms are issued, a property manager can only enter the property twice per week unless they receive explicit written consent from the tenant for additional access, such as for public open homes. This is a significant change that requires property managers to rethink their approach to access for inspections and viewings.
How OurProperty is Helping You Prepare
At OurProperty, we understand the challenges that come with navigating legal changes, and we’re committed to helping you stay compliant. Here’s how we’re supporting our users in Queensland:
Workflow Updates
We’ve made critical updates to ensure that your workflow aligns with the new legislation. From tenancy application forms to verification processes, OurProperty is automating and streamlining the necessary changes, so you don’t have to worry about missing a step.
New Features and Forms
The system will automatically generate the new Form 22 tenancy application, along with all necessary documents and forms required under the new laws. We’re also adding features to facilitate the verification of identity in line with the new two-document rule.
Compliance Without the Risk
With OurProperty’s updates, you can rest assured that your processes are fully compliant with the new laws. Our platform takes the guesswork out of these legislative changes, reducing the risk of penalties and allowing you to focus on managing properties confidently.
Ongoing Support and Training
We’re offering comprehensive training sessions and webinars to help you understand how to navigate these changes. Our team, including industry experts, will walk you through the reforms and provide guidance on best practices for implementation.
Join Our Webinar: Preparing for the QLD Tenancy Law Reforms
To help you prepare for these changes, we’re hosting a live webinar on Thursday, 24 April 2025 at 10:30 am AEST. During this session, Tayla will take you through the platform updates and key changes in tenancy law, including:
- The new workflow processes for tenancy applications and identity verification
- The new features and forms that will be integrated into OurProperty
- How OurProperty is adapting to ensure your processes are compliant, with minimal effort required from your team
If you’re an OurProperty user in Queensland, this is a must-attend session to ensure you’re fully prepared and confident in managing properties under the new laws.
👉 Check your inbox for the registration link!
With the QLD Tenancy Law Reforms coming into effect on 1 May 2025, now is the time to prepare. These changes are significant, but with the right tools and knowledge, you can continue to manage properties with ease and confidence. At OurProperty, we’re here to support you every step of the way, from understanding the reforms to implementing the necessary changes in your workflow.
If you’re an OurProperty user in Queensland, make sure to register for our upcoming webinar and stay ahead of the curve!