Can I break my lease in Victoria, and what does it cost?

Usually you owe only reasonable advertising, reletting fees and lost rent until a new renter starts.

Your clock

• 14 days, VCAT can set costs: After their notice to vacate
• VCAT hears in 3 business days: Family violence

The rule in Victoria

• Give 28 days' written notice. In a fixed term, an earlier date has no effect.
• Reletting fees shrink with the time left.
• No break fee, on 14 days' notice with proof: social or crisis housing, personal care.
• Same for a notice of intention to sell, if not told before signing.

The break fee cap starts 1 June 2027.

What to send

My notice of intention to vacate [address] is for [date]. Please explain any costs.

Who to call

• Consumer Affairs Victoria, 1300 55 81 81
• Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), 1300 018 228
• Tenants Victoria, (03) 9416 2577

Where this comes from

• Residential Tenancies Act 1997 (Vic) version 115
• Consumer Affairs Victoria: Leaving a rental property early
• Consumer Affairs Victoria: New changes to rental laws

General information, not legal advice on your situation.