The Department of Communities offers bond assistance and two weeks' rent in advance as an interest-free loan to help people obtain accommodation in the private rental market.
Last updated: 25 July 2023The Housing Authority operates within the Department of Communities (Communities).
Communities offers bond assistance and two weeks' rent in advance as an interest-free loan to help people obtain accommodation in the private rental market. Maximum loan amounts depend on your circumstances.
This loan scheme is one of the most frequently accessed housing options, with more than 10,000 loans approved each year.
To find out if you are eligible to apply for a bond, you will need to complete a Housing Options Assessment. This can be collected and completed at any Communities Housing office or via the Housing Options Assessment link and submitted in person, via email, by mail or fax. Where required, arrangements can be made to complete the form over the phone. The assessment will provide you with information about a range of housing products and services you may be eligible for based on your current household circumstances.
The Assessment is not an application for assistance and does not guarantee eligibility. If you are assessed as potentially eligible, you can lodge a formal bond application when the assessment is completed.
If approved for a bond loan, Communities will give you conditional approval. This will provide you with the criteria required to meet full eligibility, your affordability, and a form for your prospective landlord to sign. You must return this form to Communities, who will then confirm this immediately with your landlord and arrange prompt payment.
Alternatively, if you have paid the bond or two weeks' rent in advance to the landlord or real estate agent, then Communities can refund this to you. You must apply within eight weeks of payment of the bond or rent in advance. When submitting your application, you must produce evidence of the payment made to the landlord and confirmation that the bond has been lodged with the Bond Administrator.
The loan is repaid in regular payments at a minimum of $25 per fortnight.
Applicants must meet Bond Assistance Loan Scheme income limits including:
If you have any queries, please contact your local Communities Housing office.
To access a range of resources, including frequently asked questions (FAQs), brochures, application checklist, rent reduction form and evidence requirements factsheet, please visit our Resources webpage.