The Residential Tenancies and Rooming Accommodation Act 2008 (the Act) does not apply to residential tenancy agreements for boarders or lodgers, or residents who are boarders or lodgers in a rooming accommodation agreement. However, if a bond is taken from a boarder or lodger, rental bond provisions in the Act apply and it must be lodged with the RTA within 10 days, and a receipt provided.

Where the owner/head tenant lives on the premises and there are not more than three rooms available for occupation (or occupied) by residents, provisions for rental bonds apply from 6 June 2024. If a bond is taken, it must be lodged with the RTA within 10 days.

The Act does cover a tenant in rooming accommodation who may be considered a type of boarder or lodger (e.g. someone who lives in a boarding house, supported accommodation or hostel).

If there is uncertainty about whether a person is classified as a boarder/lodger or a tenant under the Act, call the RTA on 1300 366 311 or make an urgent application to QCAT for a decision.