Intent To Renew Lease Letter Template for Australia

An Intent To Renew Lease Letter is your formal way of telling your landlord that you want to continue living in or using their property after your current lease expires. This document is more than just a polite request—it's a legally significant communication that can protect your tenancy rights and demonstrate your commitment as a responsible tenant under Australian law.

When do you need this document?

You'll need an Intent To Renew Lease Letter when your lease term is approaching its end and you want to stay in the property. Most lease agreements specify how much advance notice you must give, typically ranging from 30 to 90 days before expiration. If you're a retail tenant, you may need to provide even longer notice under your state's Retail Leases Act. You should also send this letter if your landlord has asked about your renewal intentions, or if you want to propose changes to your lease terms such as rent adjustments or property modifications. The letter is essential for both residential and commercial tenancies, whether you're renting an apartment, house, office space, or retail premises.

Key legal considerations

Your Intent To Renew Lease Letter must clearly state your intention to renew and reference your current lease details, including the property address and lease reference number. Be specific about whether you want to renew on the same terms or propose modifications. Under Australian Consumer Law, any proposed changes must be fair and reasonable. If you're requesting rent adjustments, research comparable market rates to support your position. Remember that your landlord isn't legally obligated to renew your lease unless your original agreement includes automatic renewal clauses. The letter creates a paper trail that can be important if disputes arise later, so keep detailed records of when and how you send it.

Legal requirements in Australia

Each Australian state and territory has specific Residential Tenancies Act provisions governing lease renewals and notice requirements. In most jurisdictions, you must provide written notice within the timeframes specified in your lease agreement or local legislation. If you're sending the letter electronically, ensure it complies with your state's Electronic Transactions Act requirements for valid digital communications. For retail leases, additional disclosure obligations may apply under your state's Retail Leases Act. The Property Law Act in your jurisdiction may also impose specific formatting or content requirements. Some states require that renewal negotiations be conducted in good faith, meaning both parties must engage honestly and reasonably in the process. Always check your local tenancy authority's website for jurisdiction-specific requirements and standard forms that may be mandatory in your area.