Renting in Perth 2026: Costs, Bond and Your Tenant Rights Explained

Perth Rental Market Overview

Perth has experienced some of Australia's sharpest rent increases over the past three years, driven by population growth and constrained supply. In mid-2026, median weekly rents are approximately $660-720 for houses and $520-580 for apartments. Vacancy rates remain very low across the metro area, making the market challenging for renters.

Where to Find More Affordable Rentals

Perth's outer southern suburbs (Mandurah, Rockingham, Kwinana) and the outer south-east offer the best value for money. Suburbs like Armadale, Midland, Ellenbrook, and Baldivis typically sit below the city median. The northern corridor has also added new stock through development.

Tenant Rights in Western Australia

Western Australia's Residential Tenancies Act 1987 governs rentals. Key rights include:

• Bond: Maximum 4 weeks rent; held by the Bond Administrator at Commerce.wa.gov.au.
• Rent increases: Minimum 60 days written notice; no cap on the amount of increase.
• Entry notice: Landlord must give minimum 24 hours notice.
• Pets: Need permission from landlord; terms negotiated in the lease.
• Condition report: Must be provided on lease start; critical for bond recovery.

Note: WA's tenancy law has been under review — check Commerce WA for current rules as reforms may take effect in 2026.

Getting Help

The Tenancy WA (tenancywa.org.au) service provides free advice for renters. The Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety handles formal complaints. The Magistrates Court handles tenancy disputes.

Finding a Rental

realestate.com.au and REIWA (reiwa.com.au) are the main platforms for Perth rentals. REIWA tracks market data specific to WA and is useful for understanding current median prices by suburb.

This article was compiled by AI and screened before publishing. See our editorial standards.