Rental bond help in every state
Every state and territory helps renters on low incomes with a bond, and most of the help is interest-free. Start here before you borrow from a lender.
| State | Scheme | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| New South Wales | Rentstart Bond LoanHomes NSW | Interest-free loan for all or part of the bond, repaid fortnightly. |
| Victoria | RentAssist bond loanHomes Victoria | Loan for all or part of the bond, usually repaid from the bond refund when you move out. |
| Queensland | Bond loanDepartment of Housing and Public Works | Interest-free, fee-free loan of up to 4 weeks' rent, or 6 weeks with rent included. |
| Western Australia | Bond Assistance LoanDepartment of Housing and Works | Interest-free loan for the bond plus 2 weeks' rent in advance. |
| South Australia | Private Rental AssistanceSA Housing Trust | A bond guarantee rather than cash, and a grant for rent in advance. |
| Tasmania | Private Rental AssistanceHomes Tasmania, through Housing Connect | One-off help with bond and moving costs, usually up to 4 weeks' rent. |
| Australian Capital Territory | Rental bond helpHousing ACT | Interest-free loan for up to 100% of the bond, repaid over up to 2 years. |
| Northern Territory | Private rental bond assistanceTerritory Housing | Interest-free loan of up to 4 weeks' rent, plus 2 weeks' rent in advance, repaid within 18 months. |
From each scheme's official page, checked on 25 October 2026. Rules and limits change, so check before you apply.
If you don't qualify
A personal loan can cover a bond and moving costs, but it costs interest and fees, so treat it as a last resort after the free options. If you're getting a bond back from your current rental, you can use it to pay the loan off early.
If you get Centrelink payments, ask about an advance payment, and check you're receiving Commonwealth Rent Assistance. The free National Debt Helpline on 1800 007 007 can help you work out a plan.