News
23 March, 2026
New ‘Smart Bonds’ System Promises Relief for Renters
Renters in NSW are being promised relief from one of the biggest costs of moving house, with the state government beginning testing of its new “Smart Rental Bonds” system ahead of a mid-2026 rollout.
Renters in NSW are being promised relief from one of the biggest costs of moving house, with the state government beginning testing of its new “Smart Rental Bonds” system ahead of a mid-2026 rollout.
The system will allow tenants to transfer their bond from one property to another for a $25 fee, instead of paying a second bond upfront while waiting for their previous bond to be refunded.
For many renters, that upfront cost can run into the thousands. With around 330,000 households moving each year in NSW, the issue is widespread.
Under the new system, renters will be able to log into the existing Rental Bonds Online platform and choose to transfer their bond rather than pay a new one. If the new bond is higher, they will need to pay the difference. If it is lower, they will receive the balance back, provided there are no claims.
One key detail is how disputes will be handled. If a landlord makes a claim and the tenant agrees, the NSW Government will pay the landlord upfront, with the tenant then required to repay the government.
The government says this removes risk for landlords. For tenants, it effectively turns part of the bond into a debt if there is a claim.
NSW Rental Commissioner Trina Jones said the system was designed to ease pressure on renters moving between properties.
“We are aware of the challenges renters face when moving home,” she said.
“Allowing the bond to be a portable asset which can move between properties digitally will help reduce that financial pressure.”
The policy is aimed at cost-of-living pressures, with many renters currently forced to save for months or take out loans just to move house.
But while the system may ease cash flow, it does not reduce the overall cost of renting. Tenants will still need to cover any bond shortfall, and high rents remain unchanged.
Testing is now underway, with the full rollout expected later this year.
Read More: Southern Highlands, Southern Tablelands, Wollondilly