The State Government’s new rental laws came into effect on Monday, with a range of changes for both landlords and tenants


Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs Andrea Michaels said the State Government had made the biggest reforms to our state’s rental laws in a generation and was leading the nation in delivering on National Cabinet’s plan for a Better Deal for Renters.


“We have improved security for tenants facing record low vacancy rates, while ensuring the rights of landlords are protected,” she said.


The new laws mean that landlords will need prescribed grounds to terminate or not renew a tenancy.


The notice period to end a fixed tenancy will increase from 28 days to 60 days, and tenants will be allowed to have pets in rental homes with clear guidelines.


Tenants’ information will be better protected, while rental properties will have to comply with minimum housing standards, and additional options will be provided for victims of domestic violence.


“For the first time, tenants are allowed to keep pets in rental properties with clear guidelines to be set by their landlord such as keeping the animal outside or having the carpets cleaned at the end of the tenancy,” Minister Michaels said.


“Landlords are only able to end a periodic tenancy or not renew a fixed term lease for a prescribed reason including breaches by the tenant, wanting to sell, renovate or occupy the property.


“The State Government has also increased the minimum notice to end a fixed tenancy from 28 days to 60 days so tenants now have more time to secure a new home and make the necessary arrangements to move.


“The Malinauskas Government has acted consistently to address rental affordability since coming into government including by limiting the frequency of rent increases to once in a 12-month period, banning rent bidding and raising the bond threshold, which has already saved tenants more than $40m since being introduced in April 2023.”


Minister Michaels said as of Monday “South Australia has fairer rental laws”.


“We have improved security for tenants while protecting the rights of landlords.


“We recognise how tough it is for tenants trying to rent in the current market and we have acted to make things fairer,” she said.


“No longer will tenants have to make the devastating choice of giving up a beloved pet or having a roof over their head.


“Nor will they have to madly scramble to find a new home in 28 days or face the prospect of being evicted for no reason.”