This is a cleaned-up transcript of an AMA (Ask Me Anything) session in our Facebook group, where you can find exclusive tips for everything moving to Australia.
What’s included in an Australian rental property largely depends on the landlord. Always read the advertisement carefully to determine whether the property is furnished or unfurnished and whether garden or pool maintenance is included.
Furnished properties are less common. Only about 20% of the rental market advertises them. If a property doesn’t mention furnishing, assume it’s unfurnished. It’s important to clarify these details with the landlord before signing a lease.
The advertisement will specify whether garden or pool maintenance is included. However, you’ll still have some responsibilities. Pool maintenance might involve monthly visits from a company, but you’ll be responsible for day-to-day upkeep. Garden maintenance could include trimming shrubs and trees but not necessarily mowing the lawn.
As the tenant, you’re responsible for the nature strip—the area between the house and the sidewalk/road. Always check the advertisement for details about this.
What does rent include in Australia?
Local council rates are included in your rent. You won’t need to pay extra. However, electricity, water, gas, and internet are typically not included. You’ll need to set up accounts with service providers. Also, remember to replace smoke alarm batteries regularly.
When you move in, the landlord will arrange three separate inspections for electrical, gas, and smoke alarms. These inspections are the owner’s responsibility and cost.
Is it worth shipping furniture to Australia?
Anybody who follows us knows that we say don’t bring a lot with you and don’t bring oversized furniture.
Don’t bring oversized fridges. They will restrict you if you’re downsizing when arriving in Australia. We’ve seen many properties with a fridge or king-size beds in the garage because they don’t fit.
Don’t bring your wardrobes either. They only take up a lot of space in your shipping container, and, honestly, they’re not expensive to replace. Also, most homes have them.
Ovens and stovetops are all included in rentals. Dishwashers depend on your rental budget. When you look at the lower end, you might not have a dishwasher included. So it can be one of those things that’s not always there, but we would say any property above, say, $500 a week will have a dishwasher.
Air conditioning and heating can vary by state. In Victoria, for example, having at least one heater is a legal requirement. Most properties, especially in colder areas like Melbourne, have ducted heating.
Window furnishings are included in a rental, this could be curtains or blinds.
In NSW, QLD and in Perth, generally there are air conditioning units, but it might not be throughout the house.
Air conditioning units can vary. Wall units, often seen in photos, typically provide cooling only in specific rooms. Ducted or refrigerated systems offer cooling throughout the property or in zoned areas. Split systems might be limited to living rooms or bedrooms. Always check photos and the rental advertisement for details. If unsure, ask the advertiser.
We hope you found this helpful. If you have any questions or concerns, email us.
PS: Want to understand our rental market better? Know how to apply for a property and get a home quicker with our Rental Masterclass.
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