Periodic vs fixed-term tenancies
The notice period required to end a tenancy depends on two things: whether you are on a periodic (month-to-month) or fixed-term tenancy, and the reason for ending it. Fixed-term tenancies cannot generally be ended early by either party without penalty — unless there is a specific ground such as hardship, breach, or by agreement.
Tenant notice periods — periodic tenancy
When ending a periodic tenancy (after your fixed term has expired), tenants must give notice in writing. The minimum periods are:
| State | Tenant notice (periodic) | Legislation |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | 21 days | Residential Tenancies Act 2010 s 97 |
| VIC | 28 days | Residential Tenancies Act 1997 s 211 |
| QLD | 2 weeks | Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 s 277 |
| WA | 21 days | Residential Tenancies Act 1987 s 62 |
| SA | 21 days | Residential Tenancies Act 1995 s 83 |
| ACT | 3 weeks | Residential Tenancies Act 1997 s 39 |
| TAS | 42 days | Residential Tenancy Act 1997 s 40 |
| NT | 14 days | Residential Tenancies Act 1999 s 91 |
Landlord notice periods — without grounds (periodic)
For a landlord to end a periodic tenancy without a specific reason (no-grounds termination), significantly longer notice is required. Note that NSW and VIC have eliminated no-grounds evictions entirely for periodic tenancies.
NSW and Victoria have both banned no-grounds evictions for periodic tenancies. Landlords in these states must have a specific valid reason to end a periodic tenancy — such as the landlord moving in, selling the property, or the property undergoing major renovations.
| State | Landlord no-grounds notice | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | Prohibited | No-grounds evictions banned for periodic tenancies since 2023 |
| VIC | Prohibited | No-grounds evictions banned since 2021 |
| QLD | 2 months | Notice can only be given at end of fixed term |
| WA | 60 days | Residential Tenancies Act 1987 s 63C |
| SA | 90 days | Residential Tenancies Act 1995 s 84 |
| ACT | 26 weeks | One of the longest in Australia |
| TAS | 42 days | Residential Tenancy Act 1997 s 41 |
| NT | 42 days | Residential Tenancies Act 1999 s 94 |
Landlord notice — for breach (non-payment of rent)
If you fall behind on rent, your landlord can issue a termination notice. The notice period for rent arrears varies by state:
| State | Notice for rent arrears | Arrears threshold |
|---|---|---|
| NSW | 14 days | 14+ days in arrears |
| VIC | 14 days | Any arrears |
| QLD | 7 days (remedy) | Any arrears |
| WA | 7 days (remedy) | 14+ days in arrears |
| SA | 7 days | Any arrears |
| ACT | 10 days | Any arrears |
| TAS | 14 days | Any arrears |
| NT | 14 days | 14+ days in arrears |
End of fixed term
At the end of a fixed-term tenancy, different rules apply depending on whether either party wants to end the tenancy or it will continue as a periodic tenancy. In most states, if neither party gives notice before the end of the fixed term, the tenancy automatically continues as a periodic tenancy on the same terms.
Check your lease carefully. Many leases include a clause requiring you to give notice 30–60 days before the end of the fixed term if you do not intend to renew. If you miss this window, you may be liable for rent until the required notice period expires.
How to give notice
Notice to terminate must generally be in writing. Most states require it to be delivered in a specific way — usually in person, by post, or by email if the landlord/agent has agreed to email service. Verbal notice is not valid in any Australian state for a residential tenancy termination.
- •Write the date clearly and specify the date you are vacating
- •Reference your address and tenancy agreement
- •Sign and date the notice
- •Keep a copy of the notice and delivery confirmation
- •Use email with read receipt if your agreement permits email service
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.