Applying for a rental property has historically involved handing over a significant amount of personal information — sometimes more than was reasonable or necessary. From May 2025, Queensland’s rental application process became significantly more standardised and privacy-conscious, and both tenants and landlords need to understand the new rules.
Property managers and landlords are now required to use an approved standardised rental application form — Form 22 for general tenancies or Form R22 for rooming accommodation. These forms set strict limits on the type of information that can be requested from applicants.
In terms of supporting documents, landlords can request no more than two documents from each specified category. They are also prohibited from requesting certain information entirely — including a prospective tenant’s rental bond history or details of any legal action taken against them in the past. This is designed to prevent discriminatory screening practices.
Privacy protections have also been strengthened around identity documents. If a landlord or agent requests proof of identity, applicants now have the right to have the document sighted rather than copied. An agent cannot retain a copy of an identity document without the applicant’s explicit consent.
Tenants must also be given at least two ways to submit their application, and at least one of those options must be free — meaning applicants cannot be forced to pay to use a third-party platform to submit their rental application.
These changes bring greater fairness and transparency to the rental application process. If you have questions about your rights as an applicant or your obligations as a property manager, the team at Sapphire Estate Agents Queensland is ready to help. Get in touch today.
