Rental bond loans in NSW
Homes NSW's Rentstart Bond Loan helps renters on low incomes with a bond. Interest-free loan for all or part of the bond, repaid fortnightly.
What it covers
- All or part of the rental bond for a private rental home.
- No interest: you repay only what you borrowed.
Who can get it
- Aged 18 or over (16 and 17 year olds may be considered).
- An Australian citizen or permanent resident, and eligible for social housing on income and assets.
- Less than $5,000 in cash savings, and you don't own or part-own property (some exceptions apply).
- The rent is no more than 60% of your household's gross weekly income.
- The usual social housing income rule doesn't apply to people leaving domestic or family violence.
Paying it back
- Repayments are fortnightly, usually over 12 or 18 months, depending on your rent and income.
- People with special needs may get up to 36 months.
- When you move out, anything still owed can be taken from your share of the bond before the rest is returned.
How to apply
- Apply online with the Rentstart Bond Loan form.
- Or call the Housing Response Centre on 1800 422 322, Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.
From NSW Government: Rentstart Bond Loan, checked on 25 October 2026. Rules and limits change, so check the official page 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.