Major reforms to the residential tenancy bond release process have come into effect in WA, making it easier for renters to get their bond back.
Previously, only the landlord or property manager could start the bond release process, but now any tenant, landlord or agent can set things in motion.
This is part of the Residential Tenancies Amendment Act 2024 and will provide a more streamlined and transparent service for everyone.
At the end of a tenancy, the landlord or agent will do a final inspection and issue a property condition report. If tenants and landlords can’t agree on how the bond should be released, they can now dispute the bond claim.
About 4,500 tenancy matters are heard in Magistrates Courts in Western Australia every year.
A dispute application will now be referred to the Commissioner for Consumer Protection instead of the parties having to attend court.
Everyone on the bond will have 10 days to provide information and evidence to support their claim, such as invoices and photographs.
Landlords can still make claims for specific, defined reasons such as property damage, unpaid rent, cleaning or garden maintenance.
An independent decision will be made by the Commissioner once all submissions are reviewed. If anyone disagrees with the decision, they will have to lodge an appeal with the Magistrates Court within 7 days.
An expanded Consumer Protection team will handle these disputes on the Commissioner’s behalf, to save time and avoid the costs that come with going to court.
Changes have also been made to pet bonds, including increasing the maximum amount to $350, however landlords can only ask for this top up at the next rent increase.
Other reforms include new provisions to help release a bond when a tenant has died and there is no probate or administration.
Overall, the changes are designed to create a simpler bond release process that’s easier to navigate and more relevant to modern renting.
The new bond release process started on 28 March 2026.
If you need advice about your situation, contact Consumer Protection on 1300 30 40 54 or you can read more about releasing a bond online at consumerprotection.wa.gov.au