Rental costs vary considerably according to the size (number of bedrooms) and quality of a property, its age and the facilities provided.
Not least, rents depend on the region, city and neighbourhood. Rents are lower in rural than urban areas and, as a general rule, the further a property is from a large city or town, public transport or other facilities, the cheaper it is. Average rents tend to be highest in Sydney, Melbourne and Darwin.
Approximate weekly rents for unfurnished properties in larger cities are shown below:
| Type of Property | Weekly Rent ($) |
| Studio/bedsitter | 250 – 350 |
| 1-bedroom apartment | 350 – 450 |
| 2-bedroom apartment | 500 – 600 |
| 3-bedroom apartment | 700 – 1000 |
| 2-bedroom house | 500 – 750 |
| 3-bedroom house | 800 – 1200 |
Most letting agencies and estate agents charge tenants a fee of two weeks’ rent for a one-year lease and one week’s rent for a six-month lease, which are the legal maximum fees. Usually, you’re expected to pay one month’s rent in advance, depending on the type of property and the rental agreement, plus a bond (see below) which is held against damages. Tenants must also pay a fee for the lease document, plus a deposit for electricity and gas. Beware of hidden extras such as a fee for connecting the electricity, gas or telephone (or a refundable deposit).
When renting property in Australia, a bond (deposit) must be paid in advance. The bond is usually equal to between four and six weeks’ rent, and is normally higher for furnished than unfurnished properties, and can be as much as eight months’ rent for a luxury furnished property. It’s lodged with the Rental Bond Board together with a copy of the inspection (condition) report. Information regarding rental bonds can be obtained from freecall 1800-422 021.