How to Dispute a Bond Claim at Your State Tenancy Tribunal

What counts as a valid bond claim?

A landlord or agent can claim against your bond for unpaid rent, cleaning costs if the property was left in a worse condition than at the start of the tenancy, and damage beyond fair wear and tear. They cannot claim for general deterioration that occurs through normal everyday use — things like minor scuffs on walls, faded paint, or worn carpet in high-traffic areas.

If you have any doubt about whether a charge is legitimate, compare it against the ingoing condition report. If an issue was already present when you moved in and is documented in that report, the landlord generally cannot claim for it at the end of your tenancy.

Gathering your evidence

Strong evidence is the foundation of a successful bond dispute. Before lodging an application, gather:

• The ingoing condition report (your signed copy) • Dated photographs taken at move-in and move-out, ideally from the same angles • Any written communication with the landlord or agent about maintenance, cleaning, or damage • Receipts for any professional cleaning or repairs you arranged • Your lease agreement, particularly any clauses about end-of-lease obligations

If you do not have copies of these documents, request them from your landlord or agent in writing. Keep a record of that request.

How to apply to your state tribunal

Each state and territory has its own bond authority and dispute process, but the general steps are similar across Australia:

1. First, attempt to resolve the dispute directly with your landlord or agent in writing. Most state bond authorities require evidence that you tried to resolve the matter before applying. 2. If that fails, lodge an application with your state tribunal or bond authority — most now accept online applications. 3. Pay any applicable filing fee (usually waived or minimal for tenants). 4. Receive a hearing date — in most states this is within 2–6 weeks. 5. Attend the hearing (in person, by phone, or by video depending on your state) and present your evidence.

For contact details and application links for your state, see the RenterSay tenancy contacts directory.

What to expect at a hearing

Tribunal hearings for bond disputes are informal compared to court proceedings. A tribunal member will hear from both sides and may ask questions. You do not need legal representation — most hearings are conducted between the tenant and landlord or agent directly.

Bring printed copies of all your evidence. Be factual, calm, and focused on the specific items being disputed. The tribunal member will make a binding decision, usually on the day or within a short period after the hearing.

Timeframes and outcomes

If the tribunal decides in your favour, the bond authority will release the relevant amount to you. If the decision goes against you, the deduction will be paid to the landlord or agent from your bond.

Most states have strict timeframes for lodging bond disputes — typically within 3 to 6 months of the tenancy ending. Do not delay. Check your state tenancy authority website for the exact deadline that applies to you.