State and territory bond help
Names, limits and eligibility differ, and income and asset limits change. Check the official page for your state or territory before you apply.
| State | Scheme | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | Rentstart Bond Loan (Homes NSW) | An interest-free loan for part or all of a bond for eligible people, repaid in instalments. |
| Victoria | RentAssist bond loan (Homes Victoria) | An interest-free bond loan for eligible renters. Help with rent in advance or moving costs comes through other programs. |
| Queensland | Bond Loan and Bond Loan Plus | Interest-free, fee-free loans for a bond. Bond Loan Plus also covers an amount equal to two weeks' rent. Both must be repaid. |
| Western Australia | Bond Assistance Loan (Department of Communities) | An interest-free loan covering all or part of a bond, and in some cases rent in advance. |
| South Australia | Private Rental Assistance (SA Housing Trust) | A bond guarantee to the landlord instead of cash, with possible help with rent for eligible people. |
| Tasmania, ACT and NT | Contact your housing department | Ask what bond or private rental help is available where you live. |
If the landlord claims part of the bond at the end of the tenancy, you may need to repay that amount to the housing department.
Other help with bond and moving costs
No Interest Loans
Eligible people can borrow up to $3,000 with no interest or fees for a bond on a new rental property. The provider pays the supplier directly.
Moneysmart: No Interest LoansCentrelink advance payment
An advance on an eligible Centrelink payment can help with a one-off cost and is repaid from your next 13 payments.
How advance payments workRent Assistance
If you get a Centrelink payment and pay rent, check whether you're eligible for Rent Assistance.
Services Australia: Rent AssistanceCrisis Payment
If you've had to leave home because of family and domestic violence, or a fire, flood or other extreme circumstance, a one-off Crisis Payment may help. You generally need to contact Services Australia within 7 days.
Services Australia: Crisis PaymentYour old bond
Your previous bond is held by your state's bond authority, so lodge your claim promptly. In Queensland, a Bridging Bond Loan can help while you wait for an old bond to be released.
Keeping moving costs down
- Get at least two quotes from removalists and ask exactly what's included.
- Consider hiring a van for the day and asking friends or family to help.
- Book electricity, gas and internet connections early and ask about connection fees.
- If bills overlap, ask your energy retailer about payment plans or its hardship program.
- Keep a copy of your entry condition report and photos to protect your bond next time.
Bond and moving questions
Is a government bond loan interest-free?
Most state bond loans are interest-free, and some are fee-free too. Check the terms for your state, as eligibility, limits and repayment rules differ.
Can I get a No Interest Loan for a rental bond?
Yes, if you're eligible. Moneysmart says No Interest Loans can be up to $3,000 for a bond on a new rental property.
Do I have to repay a bond loan?
Generally, yes. Some schemes are repaid in instalments, and others recover the bond from the bond authority at the end of the tenancy. If the landlord makes a claim, you may owe the difference.
What if I need to move urgently because I'm not safe?
Call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732 for support, and contact Services Australia about a Crisis Payment. Your state housing department may also offer priority help.