The general rule: you need permission
In most Australian states, you need the landlord's written consent to keep a pet at the rental property. If your lease says 'no pets', that clause is enforceable — though as outlined below, several states now restrict when a landlord can refuse.
Never assume permission is granted just because you asked and didn't get a refusal. A landlord must explicitly agree in writing. Keeping a pet without consent is a breach of your tenancy agreement and could lead to a formal warning or eviction notice.
Pet laws by state
The rules around pet consent have changed significantly in recent years, particularly in Victoria and Queensland:
| State | Can Landlord Refuse? | Key Rule |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | Yes, for any reason | No mandatory right to keep pets; landlord consent required |
| VIC | Only for prescribed grounds | Refusal must be based on specific reasons (property unsuitable, body corporate rules). Tenant can apply to VCAT if refused without grounds. |
| QLD | Only for prescribed grounds | Similar to VIC from 2023 reforms — landlord must give reasons; tenant can dispute unreasonable refusal. |
| WA | Yes, for any reason | Landlord consent required; 'pet bond' up to $260 can be charged (WA only) |
| SA | Yes, for any reason | Consent required; landlord may impose pet conditions |
| ACT | Only for reasonable grounds | Tenant can request ACAT review of unreasonable refusals |
| TAS | Yes, for any reason | Written consent required from landlord |
| NT | Yes, for any reason | Written consent required; landlord may add conditions |
How to request permission for a pet
Always request pet permission in writing — email is fine. Include:
- •The type of animal and breed (if applicable)
- •Whether the animal is desexed and vaccinated
- •Where the animal will be kept (inside/outside, specific areas)
- •Any relevant qualifications (e.g., the animal is a registered assistance animal)
- •Your commitment to repair any pet-related damage
Assistance animals
A registered assistance animal (guide dog, hearing dog, or other animal accredited under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992) is not a pet for the purposes of tenancy law. A landlord cannot refuse an assistance animal — doing so is disability discrimination under federal law. If you have a registered assistance animal, provide documentation from the accrediting organisation.
Support animals that are not formally accredited under the Disability Discrimination Act do not have the same legal protection as registered assistance animals. The rules vary by state.
Pet bonds and conditions
Outside Western Australia, landlords cannot charge a separate 'pet bond' — bond maximums apply to the whole tenancy, including pets. In WA, a pet bond of up to $260 can be charged in addition to the standard bond. Landlords can impose reasonable conditions (e.g., professional flea treatment on vacating), but conditions must be reasonable and documented in the lease or a written pet agreement.
Pet damage and your bond
You are responsible for damage caused by your pet — this is above and beyond fair wear and tear. The landlord can claim against your bond for pet-related damage such as scratched floors, stained carpets, and chewed doors. To protect yourself, document the property's condition at the start of the tenancy (and when the pet moves in) with dated photographs.
This guide provides general information based on current Australian tenancy legislation. It is not legal advice. Always verify with the relevant state tenancy authority or a qualified professional for your specific situation. Last verified: January 2026.