This week we received an update from Trina Jones, the NSW Rental Commissioner at NSW Fair Trading. This is a hot topic that we have been talking about for almost a year on our social media and now we have more info to share. Below is a few videos from April 2025.
@johnpyerealestate Replying to @buggy312 Portable Rental Bonds have not been implemented yet and are not in the changes that are coming 19th of May 2025. NSW Fair Trading have indicated it will be later in 2025. #rental #bond #property #tenants #home #realestateinvestmentproperty #propertymanager #sydneyrealestateagent #nsw #fairtrading #nswfairtrading
@johnpyerealestate More details of NSW Fair Trading email about the changes starting 19th May, 2025. 🏡 #rental #rentalproperty #investors #renters #nswfairtrading #residentialtenancyact #realestateagent #propertymanager #propertyowners #investors #realestatetiktok #realestate #sydneyrealestate
Email from Trina Jones
“Subject: Smart Rental Bonds is coming
To support renters when moving between rental properties, the NSW Government is introducing Smart Rental Bonds in 2026.
Smart Rental Bonds will allow renters to transfer their existing bond to a new property, helping them avoid paying a second bond upfront while waiting for a refund. All transfers will be managed securely through Rental Bonds Online.
Importantly, there are no changes to existing processes or obligations for real estate agents or landlords. The NSW Government will pay any agreed claims and the tenant will pay back the Government. The process and timeframes for paying agreed deductions to landlords or agents will remain the same.
Explainer video
Watch this short video to learn how Smart Rental Bonds works.
What to tell renters
If renters ask about Smart Rental Bonds, you can advise:
- Smart Rental Bonds will be available soon
- renters will be able to transfer their bond when moving properties in the Rental Bonds Online System
- renters need to advise their landlord or agent for the new home that they have an existing Rental Bonds Online account
- renters can register their interest now to be notified when Smart Rental Bonds becomes available
- Smart Rental Bonds will only be available for bonds lodged using Rental Bonds Online.
Smart Rental Bonds aims to improve flexibility and reduce financial pressure for renters, while maintaining existing security for agents and landlords.
Learn more about Smart Rental Bonds on the NSW Fair Trading Website: www.nsw.gov.au/housing-and-construction/renting-a-place-to-live/residential-rental-bonds/smart-rental-bonds”
Jones, Trina. “Smart Rental Bonds is coming” Received by Rebecca (Bec) Reid, 23rd March, 2026, 3:13pm