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Housing Australia

Housing in Australia

Find out how to rent or buy property in Australia: everything migrants need to know about the housing market, rental applications, and property ownership.

Renting in Australia

Renting is the most practical first step for most new migrants. The Australian rental market is competitive in major cities, so understanding how applications work, and preparing a strong application, is essential before you arrive.

Rental properties are typically managed by licensed real estate agents. You apply online through the agent's portal (most use 1form or Snug), providing identity documents, employment details, rental history, and references. Competition is fierce in Sydney and Melbourne, so applying to multiple properties simultaneously is advisable.

Lease Agreements

Lease Agreements

Typically 6 or 12 months. Your lease sets rent, notice periods, and house rules. Tenancy laws are state-specific.

Bond (Security Deposit)

Bond (Security Deposit)

Typically 4 weeks' rent, lodged with the state tenancy authority and returned at lease end if no damage or arrears.

Tenant Rights

Tenant Rights

Landlords must provide a safe, habitable property and give 24–48 hours notice before inspections.

Buying Property in Australia

Purchasing property in Australia is a significant investment and the process differs from many other countries. Non-residents and some temporary visa holders face restrictions under the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) rules. Once you hold permanent residency, these restrictions no longer apply.

FIRB Rules for Foreign Buyers

FIRB Rules for Foreign Buyers

Non-residents and temporary visa holders need FIRB approval before purchasing residential property; citizens and PRs are exempt.

The Buying Process

The Buying Process

Inspection, contract review, 10% deposit on exchange, cooling-off period, then settlement in 30–90 days.

Frequently Asked Questions

To rent in Australia, you apply through a real estate agent and submit a rental application with ID (passport, driver's licence), proof of income, rental references, and employment details. If approved, you sign a fixed-term lease (typically 6 or 12 months) and pay a bond (usually 4 weeks' rent) plus rent in advance. Residential tenancies are governed by state legislation which sets minimum standards for landlords and tenants.
Australia's rental market, particularly in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, is highly competitive. Vacancy rates have been at record lows, meaning properties receive multiple applications quickly. To maximise your chances, have all documents ready before inspections, write a personalised cover letter, offer references promptly, and be flexible on move-in dates. F4MG's settlement support can connect you with relocation agents who navigate this on your behalf.
Yes, but with restrictions. Foreign nationals and temporary residents must apply to the Foreign Investment Review Board (FIRB) for approval before purchasing most residential property. Temporary residents can generally buy one established dwelling to live in (not as an investment) and must sell it when they leave Australia. Permanent residents and citizens have no FIRB restrictions on residential property. F4MG recommends consulting a property lawyer before purchasing.
Upfront property purchase costs in Australia typically include: stamp duty (transfer duty), which varies by state and purchase price; legal/conveyancing fees ($1,500–$3,000); building and pest inspection ($500–$800); FIRB application fee (if applicable, starts at $14,100 for properties under $1M); lenders mortgage insurance (LMI) if your deposit is below 20%; and home and contents insurance. Total upfront costs beyond the deposit are usually 3–6% of the purchase price.
Most Australian rentals are managed through licensed real estate agents who handle applications, bonds (held in a government-regulated trust), inspections, and repairs. Private rentals (directly from a landlord, often on Facebook Marketplace or Gumtree) can offer flexibility and lower costs but provide fewer protections and less formal processes. When renting privately, always ensure you have a formal written lease and that the bond is lodged with the state bond authority.

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