Leeka Group has gone down the path of bringing a heightened level of wellness to its recently unveiled Melbourne apartment development, Comme Prahran.

It isn't in the form of a suite of amenities, given the building is more boutique in nature with just 32 apartments, but with clever inclusions designed to uplift their residents lifestyle.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/comme-prahran-182-194-commercial-road-prahran-vic-3181">Comme</a>, directly opposition the iconic Prahran Market on Commercial Road, has been designed by renowned architecture studio <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/cera-stribley-architects">Cera Stribley</a> and&nbsp;will introduce the first-of-its-kind multi-dimensional wellness offering, where physical, mental, social, environmental, and cultural well-being are embedded throughout.

“Prahran has long been a destination for culture, community and quality of life, and Comme builds on that in a deeply intentional way,” says Leeka Director, Chek Ming Cheng.&nbsp;

“This project introduces a new kind of urban sanctuary, one that adapts to individual definitions of wellness, whether that’s through nutrition, rest, movement, design or connection. Every space has been thoughtfully shaped to support the diverse rhythms of modern life."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108413 project_image_fid=353544]

There will be a rooftop with a&nbsp;Zen garden designed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/landscape-architect/plume-studio">Plume Landscape Architects</a>, offering&nbsp;a sensory experience that activates all five senses, an edible herb wall to taste, calming botanicals to smell, reflexology paths to feel, lush plantings to see and the gentle sounds of water and birdsong to hear.

Inside each residence, wellness is deeply personal, and Comme embraces this individuality with a suite of customisation options designed to enhance both health and lifestyle. Residents can tailor their homes with circadian lighting automation, supported by research linking it to improved well-being, better rest, and even longevity.&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108413 project_image_fid=353546]

Other add-ons residents can opt for include real-time air monitoring and purification systems, ensuring a cleaner, healthier environment, while blackout blinds help optimise sleep quality. Additionally, the option to include integrated smart home technologies and security measures with multiple controlled access points offers ease, convenience, and peace of mind, supporting day-to-day living and contributing to overall mental well-being.

Kitchens can be fitted with healthy cooking appliances such as steam ovens and taps for instant filtered, sparkling or hot water, while ensuites can be transformed into spa-style sanctuaries complete with steam showers, heated floors, rain heads, smart toilets, and sensor night lights to support restful sleep cycles. In the penthouse residence, further options include an outdoor spa for enhanced recovery and indulgence.

“Comme isn’t just about design, it’s about how space can support your day-to-day life," Chek added.

"Whether you like a steam shower, checking your indoor air quality, simply enjoying a quiet moment in the rooftop garden, or reflecting on the artworks in the building, wellness is part of your everyday routine, not an afterthought."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108413 project_image_fid=353543]

The residences will feature open-plan layouts compliant with Better Apartment Design Standards (BADS), with floor-to-ceiling windows that maximise ventilation, natural light and thermal comfort. Finishes such as natural stones, timber flooring and low-VOC paints are complemented by facade design that filters dappled light and aids in thermal comfort.

Cera Stribley, Co-Founder, Domenic Cerantonio, said the first thing you notice is the light.

"Natural light floods the living spaces, casting a soft glow that instantly lifts your spirits. It's as if the outside world melts away, and you're cocooned in a peaceful oasis."

The gallery-style residential lobby will feature circadian-inspired lighting and artwork, while the ground-floor will offer retail and hospitality spaces.

The building’s mixed-use design fosters connection, with ground-floor retail and hospitality creating a vibrant, welcoming destination. These spaces are thoughtfully designed to enhance the precinct and bring it to life.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project:default project_id=108413 project_image_fid=353545]

Sustainability and environmental responsibility are integral to Comme Prahran’s DNA. All homes are gas-free and designed to a 7-star energy average, with double glazing, WELS-rated plumbing, and EV charging capabilities available. A light-coloured exterior has been chosen to minimise heat absorption, supporting thermal efficiency and reducing reliance on artificial cooling.

Honouring the cultural richness of Prahran, the project reimagines an Edwardian-era landmark, integrating its historic character into a contemporary architectural form. Art experiences will activate the residential and retail lobbies, and a dedicated artwork on the external eastern facade will enrich the building’s street presence, embedding it into the creative fabric of the neighbourhood.

&nbsp;

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=108413]

Joel Robinson

Comme Prahran launches opposite Prahran Market

Apartment developer Third.i has seen "overwhelming interest" in its recently unveiled new harbourside apartment project, The Rushcutters.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/the-rushcutters-51-57-bayswater-road-rushcutters-bay-nsw-2011">The Rushcutters</a>, which is being delivered in partnership with James Packer's NPACT, will comprise just 13 luxury two- and three-bedroom apartments.&nbsp;

Demand is predominantly coming from local downsizers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144646 project_image_fid=351903]

“We’ve been absolutely blown away by the level of interest in The Rushcutters,” said Luke Berry, Director and Co-founder Third.i Group.

“It’s clear that buyers are seeking more than just a place to live, they’re looking for a lifestyle upgrade. The ability to amalgamate apartments into expansive, whole-floor homes is a game-changer for downsizers who want space without the maintenance of a traditional house.”

The Rubinstein Group is marketing the project alongside Hume Residential and JLL.

“It’s no surprise that if you’re downsizing from a five-bedroom house in Bellevue Hill, for example, you want to maintain that sense of space and luxury when looking for your next home, "&nbsp;Gavin Rubinstein, Founder of The Rubinstein Group, said.

“The Rushcutters is a great fit. Amalgamating apartments to create a bespoke, whole-floor home is a natural progression for buyers who aren’t willing to compromise on size and/or quality.”

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144646 project_image_fid=351901]

Amalgamating apartments has become a common theme among high-end buyers across Third.i's portfolio including Muse in Potts Point, and Elevate Hume Place in Crows Nest, which set a Lower North Shore apartment record with the $15.1 million sale of an amalgamation of a penthouse and sub-penthouse.

“We’re witnessing a clear shift towards more amalgamations in a number of our projects across Sydney,” said Jason Fraser, Principal at Woods Bagot.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144646 project_image_fid=351899]

“The ability to combine apartments is enabling buyers to create truly unique, house-sized residences with high-end finishes, and proximity to vibrant urban precincts. The desire to amalgamate apartments to bespoke, house-sized residences is becoming a defining feature of Sydney’s evolving luxury apartment market."

Due to the City of Sydney’s no net dwelling loss policy, Thirdi is only able to offer one level for amalgamation at The Rushcutters, combining two apartments into a single, expansive residence.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144646]

The Rushcutters a "great fit" for downsizers

Lower North Shore developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/abadeen-group">Abadeen</a> has secured development approval for its ultra-luxury residential project on the <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/34-burran-avenue-mosman-nsw-2088">dress circle Burran Avenue</a>.

The project, just&nbsp;50 metres from Balmoral Beach within Mosman’s prestigious Golden Triangle, will commence construction in early 2026,&nbsp;following the successful completion of its nearby Hampden Mosman project.

Lodged in April 2025 and approved in September 2025, the development will comprise three whole-floor residences, each designed to capture panoramic harbour views through Sydney Heads.

<img alt="34 Burran Avenue, Mosman" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7f4c7816-0ac8-4ef7-be0a-8ef23b693b68" src="https://s3.ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/inline-images/BURRAN%20EV01%20R04%20option%201%20%281%29.jpg?VersionId=gVzI8pT6_K59Nhzaz0FLEvY6Kj9Kc8Fg" />

Set on an elevated 550 sqm corner site at the junction of Burran Avenue and Stanton Road, the building has been designed to sit within Balmoral’s natural slope. The façade mixes stone and metal cladding with angular forms, while oversized terraces and full-height sliding doors create a connection between interior living spaces and outdoor entertaining areas.

The delivery team from Abadeen’s Hampden Mosman project, which includes construction company Reform Projects and interiors company Mathieson, has been retained to bring the same level of execution and craftsmanship to Burran Avenue.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/platform-architects">Platform Architects</a> has been appointed project architect, bringing extensive experience from recent luxury residential projects in Manly, Fairlight and Freshwater.

&nbsp;

Justin Brown, Executive Chairman and Founder of Abadeen, said sites of this calibre, this close to Balmoral, are incredibly rare.

“Burran Avenue is an extraordinary site; its location, its scale and its outlook make it truly one of a kind. Receiving DA approval marks an exciting milestone for Abadeen."

"We’re proud to be moving forward with an exceptional team to deliver a project that will set a new standard for ultra-luxury living on Sydney’s Lower North Shore. Construction is planned to commence in early 2026, and interest is already strong from discerning local buyers who recognise the uniqueness of this address."

Brown anticipates prices will set new Mosman benchmarks above $20 million. Sales are expected to launch in March 2026.

Abadeen approved for Mosman's priciest apartments

Lifestyle developer <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/gurner">GURNER™ Group</a>, in partnership with Costa Property Group, has announced plans to reimagine Cunningham Pier in Geelong, one of Victoria's most recognisable heritage landmarks.

The announcement follows the City of Greater Geelong’s release of its Draft Geelong Waterfront Master Plan, which seeks to revitalise the waterfront with new energy, tourism, and investment. GURNER and Costa Property Group’s vision aligns with the Council’s ambitions to create a vibrant, connected, and economically powerful precinct for the community.&nbsp;

The future of Cunningham Pier will draw inspiration from Sydney Harbour’s luxury waterfront residences through to Dubai’s sculptural pier-edge towers, blending architectural excellence with &nbsp;resort-style living, hospitality, and public amenity.&nbsp;

The concept, described as “Saint Moritz on the Sea”, is envisioned to include:&nbsp;

<ul>
	<li>Six-star hotel accommodation and services&nbsp;</li>
	<li>World-class restaurants, bars, and public spaces&nbsp;</li>
	<li>High-end residential offerings&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Entertainment and cultural venues&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Potential cruise ship port facilities, integrating Geelong into the global travel network&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

The transformative project aims to become a magnet for tourism, investment, and innovation, while &nbsp;ensuring continued public access and connection to Corio Bay’s pristine waterfront.&nbsp;

Cunningham Pier has been operated by Costa Property Group for more than 15 years, with the City of Greater Geelong expressing strong support for strategic commercial partnerships that unlock &nbsp;tourism-led economic development for the region’s fast-growing population.&nbsp;

Tim Gurner, Founder &amp; Executive Chairman, GURNER™ Group, said the project is a "once-in-a-generation opportunity to put Geelong on the global map," adding that their version will be of what icons like the Opera House, Story Bridge or Empire State Building have done for other great cities.

“We’ll be working hand-in-hand with the Mayor, Council, the local community, and State Government to deliver something truly iconic that positions Geelong on the world stage. This project brings together everything we’ve built our brand on – world-class design, hospitality, &nbsp;lifestyle, and experience – all in one place. From six-star hotels and restaurants to the possibility of a &nbsp;new cruise ship terminal and luxury residences, the vision is extraordinary.”&nbsp;

City of Greater Geelong&nbsp;Mayor Stretch Kontelj said he welcomes the "bold and inspiring vision reimagining our beloved Cunnigham Pier as a global destination."

"This ambitious plan and the opening of Nyaal Banyul Geelong Convention and Event Centre next year have the potential to take our already world-class waterfront to even greater heights.”

Sydney Harbour, Dubai pier towers, to influence Gurner's Cunningham Pier, Geelong development

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/architects/bates-smart">Bates Smart</a> is one of Melbourne's longest standing architecture firms.

Founded in Melbourne in 1853 by Joseph Reed, the firm began as Reed &amp; Barnes and has evolved through various partnerships before adopting the Bates Smart name in the 20th century. With a continuous presence spanning more than 170 years, the practice has played a pivotal role in shaping Melbourne’s architectural identity.

In the 19th century, Bates Smart designed several of Melbourne’s enduring landmarks, including the Royal Exhibition Building (1880), a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Melbourne Town Hall. The firm’s influence continued into the 20th century with notable works such as Ici House (1958), considered Melbourne’s first modern skyscraper and a milestone in post-war Australian architecture.

One of their landmark designs was&nbsp;The First Church of Christ, Scientist, at 336-340 St Kilda Road. The building, which is listed on the Victorian Heritage Register, was designed by Bates, Peeble and Smart with construction completed in 1922. Architecturally, the building is significant as a rare example of early twentieth century classicism applied to a religious building. Historically, the building is significant as the first church of the Christian Science movement.

Melbourne developer Time &amp; Place decided to bring Bates Smart back to the area to design their next residential apartment project, Park Modern.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138453 project_image_fid=2138]

<a href="https://www.urban.com.au/new-apartments/park-modern-south-melbourne-1-middleton-lane-south-melbourne-vic-3205">Park Modern</a>, on one of the largest island sites on the Melbourne CBD fringe, bordered by Dorcas Street, Wells Street, and Middleton Lane, will comprise two sculptural towers. It is being positioned as a design-forward response to evolving owner-occupier preferences in the Domain precinct.

Tim Price, Director at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/time-place">Time &amp; Place</a>, says&nbsp;Bates Smart have got a footprint on this city, probably like no other architect.

"It’s a really nice kind of next chapter story, that they created from a design perspective so long ago," Price told Apartments.com.au.

Park Modern will be the third time Time &amp; Place has worked with Bates Smart, having successfully designed and delivered Collins House and Opera on St Kilda Road together.

The brief focused on creating a built form that would feel contextually appropriate while offering a contemporary evolution of inner-city apartment living.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138453 project_image_fid=2137]

The focus for Park Modern is squarely on owner-occupiers.

“It’s not always about downsizing," Price says.

"Sometimes it’s just about creating a space which is easily maintained, lock up and leave, reflecting people’s aspirations, whether they’re entertainers, big dining room spaces, big open terraces, they’re important parts of any design consideration.”

The building includes a mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments, as well as penthouses, with layouts and floor plans designed to suit a broad demographic. The architecture has been shaped to capture&nbsp;view corridors to the Botanic Gardens, Port Phillip Bay and the CBD skyline.

Each apartment has been oriented to maximise natural light and provide a clear outlook, elements often cited by owner-occupiers as key criteria.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=138453 project_image_fid=351806]

Rather than defaulting to a generic luxury offering, the amenity strategy at Park Modern reflects specific insights into how residents want to live. The ground floor will include co-working areas, wellness facilities, and a concierge-led lobby that blends indoor and outdoor design cues.

“Wellness has become a more thoughtful consideration, not just gyms or lap pools, but things like magnesium plunge pools, saunas, daybeds, and studio spaces for Pilates and the regular cardio workout,” says Price.

One notable inclusion is a substantial porte-cochère, a covered vehicle drop-off zone integrated into the site plan. It’s a feature rarely seen in inner-urban developments and speaks to the team’s emphasis on ease of arrival and departure for residents and guests.

A display suite for Park Modern is now open by appointment, giving prospective buyers an early look at the project.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=138453]

100 years on, Bates Smart returns to South Melbourne's Domain Precinct to design Park Modern

Residential Tenancies Act

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Hi Margaret,
I have an interesting issue relating to a property my wife and I are renting. The property is in fact two separate units: the down stairs is a commercial premises where my wife runs her hair salon while upstairs is a separate residential unit. We live upstairs and pay separate rent on a separate lease for this property.
This is where it gets murky. The landlord is demanding my wife pay the full rates for the premises. As I understand it, my wife is responsible for the rates on the commercial premises below, but not the residential domicile above. The landlord refuses to get the property registered as two separate units and as such is demanding we pay all the rates.
The entire building is on one single water system, making calculation of bills nigh on impossible as well but interestingly upstairs has a separate electricity and gas supply to downstairs. Surely this would be indicative of a separate property.
The landlord is a solicitor and is using a bullying and brutish attitude to try and brow beat us into submission. Her attitude it would seem is that because neither of us has the legal acumen to rebuke her demands she can just steamroller over us. I'm hoping you can point me in the direction of the relevant legal statutes that would help us fight our corner.
Read Margaret Lomas' answer on the next page.
<hr class="system-pagebreak">
I have taken a while to do some research for this question, including seeking some advice from my friend Rob Balanda, who is a QLD property lawyer.
You say that:
"The property is in fact two separate units: the down stairs is a commercial premises where my wife runs her hair salon while upstairs is a separate residential unit. We live upstairs and pay separate rent on a separate lease for this property."
This means that you have two leases in place – a commercial lease for the hair salon, and a residential lease for the unit above, in which you reside.
While it is important to point out that each state has its own Tenancy Act, they do share some commonalities and these commonalities most likely relate to your current problem.
Generally speaking, a commercial lease requires that the tenant pays all outgoings, including council rates, which is currently occurring for you.
Again generally speaking, a residential lease requires that the landlord pay all council rates, and not the tenant.
When it comes to the water rates and usage, a commercial lease requires the tenant to pay both, but in a residential lease the landlord must pay the water rates while the tenant pays the usage.  Note that the way usage is dealt with is different in each state, so you should check with your Department of Fair Trading to see how they are dealt with in your state.
As your water usage is shared and not seperately metered, things are a little tricky.  In QLD, this is what the Tenancy Act has to say:
Residential Lease
If the residence is not individually metered, the tenant can be made to pay water consumption charges for the premises only if:
(a)  the tenant is enjoying or sharing the benefit of a water service to the premises; and (b)  the premises are individually metered for the supply of water or water is supplied to the premises by delivery by means of a vehicle; and (c)  the agreement states that an amount for the water consumption charges for the premises is payable by the tenant.
However, the full cost can only be passed on to the tenant if the premises are "water efficient" - this being where the premises complies with water efficiency requirements under regulation.
In your case this is going to be difficult, as you won't be able to determine which portion of the usage is for upstairs, but it could be a moot point anyway if you live in a state where all usage is the responsibility of the tenant.  The landlord does, however, have to pay the water rates on the residential part of this property, and could be asked to determine a fair way to separate these out so you, the residential tenant, do not pay.
Note that it is not the zoning which determines the treatment, it is the basis for the lease.  Therefore, the fact that your home is not a separate unit matters little if you have signed a residential lease.
You should contact your state Department of Fair Trading and seek some advice about this.  In my experience they are very helpful and they will be able to act for you to establish a fairer system with this difficult landlord. As a lawyer you would expect her to know the law, but this is not always the case.
 
 
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mlomas-KC9MUPZ6Ca

Ask Margaret: Can my landlord make me pay the rates for my residential unit? 

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Reforms to the Residential Tenancies Act have passed without amendment.
REINSW President Leanne Pilkington (pictured above) said the Residential Tenancies Amendment (Review) Bill 2018 passed and REINSW was now commencing the first phase of educating the property management community.
She stated it is important for the profession to understand all of the changes that the new Bill includes as these major changes affect the real estate industry, landlords &amp; tenants.
Particularly as the new rental laws are set to favour tenants.
The Real Estate Institute of NSW had claimed it was blindsided by the proposals and its concerns ignored.
“There are well-meaning, passionate views on both sides of the debate,” Matt Kean, the Minister said in response to a broadside from the institute.
”But my job is to make sure we get the balance right … and get the policy settings in place that will mean landlords and tenants get the best of both worlds.”
McKibbin has more recently sent a letter to NSW Premier Gladys Berejiklian saying people "would be horrified to learn of the level and quality of support the industry receives from Government and the risk this exposes them to as consumers in comparison to the supportive regulatory structure provided to the industry in the other States and Territories of Australia."
McKibbin claimed it would be "grossly negligent" for Ms Berejiklian to ignore the issue.
"We (the real estate industry) are the biggest industry in this state and this country. We make a greater contribution to state revenue than any of the other industries. I would be very surprised if the Premier would ignore a dissatisfied property industry - I think that would be grossly negligent to discard our position," Mr McKibbin claimed.
The REINSW will be however conducting training sessions in 17 locations across the state beginning in Sydney on the 25 October and running to 29 November.
The second phase will follow the release of the Regulation, which are the guidelines that dictate how the act should be applied.
The REINSW had worked to identify areas where reform was needed.
Ms Pilkington said "while many of our lobbying efforts have been adopted in whole or part by the Government, a lot have been ignored, such as the Government’s proposed changes to: alterations to property, break fees, domestic violence, rent increases, and more."
The bill will now be sent to the Governor of NSW for his assent.
The date for the reforms to be put into action has yet to be disclosed. 
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

NSW Residential Tenancies Act 2018 reforms have passed without amendment

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<div class="layoutArea">
<div class="column">
GUEST OBSERVER
The Victorian Parliament’s Legislative Council will consider the Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill (RTA Bill) this week, the second last sitting week before the caretaker period ahead of the Victorian Election in November. 
The REIV has worked closely with all political parties to help shape the best possible legislative outcome. 
The Residential Tenancies Act was enacted in 1997: no one is questioning the need for an update to rental laws.
When the Premier announced the RTA Bill, he said it’s purpose was to ‘fix the system and make renting fair for all Victorians’ but the legislation, in its current form, is certainly not fair for investors, property owners and landlords. 
The RTA will deliver an unfair, unworkable and impractical system which would rob landlords of their right to consent to what goes on in their properties, burden them with unrealistic expenses to upgrade appliances and could mean they are not paid their rental on time for four out of every 12 months without any recourse.
The REIV requires the following amendments to the Bill: 
<ul>
<li>
Retaining the current system around rental arrears enabling VCAT to make a call in the manner they do now based on evidence and circumstances;
</li>
<li>
Landlords must be able to consent to pets and there must be provision for pet bonds; 
</li>
<li>
Property owners must be allowed to consent to property modifications and urgent repairs;
</li>
<li>
 
</li>
<li>Retention of the 120 day ‘No Reason’ notice to vacate; and 
</li>
<li>A realistic staggered upgrade (five years) of appliances and an incentive scheme.</li>
</ul>
 
The REIV has written to its members this week, asking them to contact Members of Parliament to explain how the RTA is simply unworkable.
It is in everyone’s interests – renters, investors, agents and government – that we have a system that is fair, balanced and practical.
These proposed changes could have a significant impact on an already constricted rental market: vacancy rates are at record lows, there is declining levels of rental stock coming on to the market and interest rates are rising for the first time in two years.
If the Government makes it too hard then landlords will consider removing properties from the rental market, rents are likely to rise and property owners will be forced to minimse their risk by offering shorter tenancies.
The REIV has advocated strongly against the ‘Rent Fair’ legislation, on behalf of its 5000 members and their landlord clients. The online ‘Rent Fair is Unfair’ petition has 27,000 signatures.
Richard Simpson is the President of the REIV.
</div>
</div>
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

REIV calls for a fair go on rental laws before Parliament this week

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Perth builder Adrian Zorzi is Australia's top house builder. 
<a href="https://www.adrianzorzi.com.au/" target="_blank">Adrian Zorzi</a> took out the coveted 2016 National Residential Builder of the Year at Master Builders Australia's National Excellence in Building and Construction Awards. 
"Zorzi is a thoroughly deserving winner and has been recognised for the highest quality and calibre of his skill and craftsmanship and tradespeople," Wilhelm Harnisch, chief executive officer of Master Builders Australia said. 
"The magnificent quality of the South American Style home which won Zorzi the Award is a showcase of excellence," he said.  
"Every element has been detailed to the tenth degree making the home a masterpiece and Adrian Zorzi truly deserves the accolades that are accorded to him as the 2016 Master Builders Australia Residential Builder of the Year," Wilhelm Harnisch said 
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jchancellor-FAypfDUnLy

Adrian Zorzi wins top MBA builder acclaim

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Complying with your legal obligations is crucial, regardless of whether you use a property manager or self manage your properties.
With this in mind, we're sharing 10 'must know' things from the Residential Tenancies Act in New South Wales and encouraging you to provide your own. Next week, we'll tackle Victoria.
<ol>
<li>
That the following terms are not allowed in your agreement:  - A requirement for the tenant to have the carpet professionally cleaned, or to pay for the cost of this service, at the end of the tenancy. - This may not apply if the tenant has pets. That the tenant needs any sort of specific insurance.  - That any rebate may occur if the tenant does not breach the agreement, and, on the other hand, that a tenant is liable to pay all the remaining rent, increased rent or a penalty if they breach the agreement. 
</li>
<li>
Your tenant has anti-discrimination rights.   While this can be a broad topic, you must not discriminate against tenants on the basis of your tenant's race, religion, sexual oritenation, age or any disabilities. Discrimination can be seen as broad, and may include undertaking extra inspections due to a tenant's age. 
</li>
<li>Pet bonds are not allowed. </li>
<li>
You do not have to allow sub-letting.  If a tenant is sub-letting without your consent, that is having another resident in the house pay rent to themselves, this is against the agreement. 
</li>
<li>
Tenants must be provided 60 days of written notice for a rent increase.   When 'written notice' is mentioned, you must allow time for postage if this is your intended method. It is recommended that landlords and property managers keep clear records of when notices have been sent, to avoid a breach. 
</li>
<li>
The property must be in a reasonable state of cleanliness, and it must be habitable, when provided to the tenant.   While this is a debatable point, it's largely worth remembering the state of a property you would be happy to inhabit, and emulate this. Remember to focus on making the property compliant, safe and clean. 
</li>
<li>
Tenants are required to report the need for repairs and maintenance.  They must also not make material additions or changes, such as the alteration of locks or security devices, or fly screens, without the consent of the landlord. 
</li>
<li>
There is a limit on the amount of bond you can charge a tenant. In New South Wales, this limit is up to four week's of the rent you have agreed to pay. As a landlord or property manager, a bond lodgement form is required to be provided to the tenant. 
</li>
<li>
A landlord must tell tenants 'material facts'.   These material facts include whether the home has been subject to serious flooding or bushfire in the past five years, if there are any health/safety risks or if the home has been the scene of a violent crime in the past five years. 
</li>
<li>
A tenant should be provided with a condition report. The tenant should be provided two copies, one of which is for their records, the other is for the property manager. They should be given seven days in which to complete and return this form.
</li>
</ol>
Do you have any "must know" facts from the Residential Tenancies Act? Share yours below.
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Residential Tenancies Act

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