Expert Info

Posted by
on 7 Apr 2013

Hi, I would like to know how you go about renting a house when you first arrive in Australia and you don't have a job yet, is it possible? what about references? we own our property where we are so don't have references.

Anonymous (not verified) on 8 Apr 2013 - 08:42
Hi Tony R

Without a job or a previous landlord to give a reference it might be challenging to find a property to rent in Australia. The only thing I can suggest is to get together some character reference letters from friends or your previous employer in your home country. This will help your future landlord to see that you are reliable. 

Other documents that might help are letters from your current neighbours or from your bank manager if you have had a mortgage, as he can confirm that you made your payments on time. Basically any documentation showing that you will be a good tenant will be helpful. Often landlords only take such documents into consideration when there is a very high demand for a particular property. 

I hope this is helpful, for more information please see Renting property in Australia.

Regards

Candice
Anonymous (not verified) on 7 May 2013 - 05:05
Hi Tony, I work in relocations so understand re rental process. although def more challenging to get a rental property application approved without a job- not impossible. I suggest you bring proof of property ownership as this is an asset and some personal/past employer references. You could also take a shorter 1-3 month furnished rental - these are pricier but are usually booked by holidaymakers too so job is less important. for more check out www.aussierelocation.com - Good luck! Charlotte Sherston
Anonymous (not verified) on 8 May 2013 - 08:27
Thanks Everyone for you advice we are a long way off yet but everything has been taken on board.
Anonymous (not verified) on 20 Aug 2013 - 08:33
It's not impossible. You just have to be armed with certain documents to prove your ability to pay rent and references from previous landlords and at the end if you look good on paper then you could still get a rental. I help out people coming in from overseas and interstate look for their long term rental homes here in Melbourne (www.finderskeeperspl.com) and sometimes people who have professional jobs have a hard time looking for places as well.