onlytherent

South Australia

The strongest express wording in the country: rent must be payable in a reasonably convenient manner, with at least one electronic method that avoids a fee-charging collector - and no fee may be charged for paying or collecting rent.

What the law requires

A landlord … must ensure that rent may be paid by the tenant under the agreement in a reasonably convenient manner and, in particular, must permit the tenant to pay by at least 1 means that is electronic and does not involve the collection of rent … by a third party who charges a fee for the collection service. Maximum penalty: $25 000.

LegislationResidential Tenancies Act 1995 (SA), s 56A(1)

Current authorised text (PDF)

What cannot be charged

A person must not charge or receive from a tenant a fee for the payment of rent by, or collection of rent from, the tenant. Maximum penalty: $35 000.

LegislationResidential Tenancies Act 1995 (SA), s 56A(2)

Both are statutory maximums, with expiation fees of $1,500 and $2,000 respectively - not automatic fines for a complaint.

What methods must be offered

At least one electronic method that does not involve a third party who charges a fee for collecting rent. Payment by a method a tenant can use without repeated reconfiguration is the practical question.

What about inconvenient alternatives?

This is the jurisdiction where “convenience” is written into the statute rather than inferred. Note the counterpoint: South Australian guidance confirms a nominated account can be changed with notice, so the objection is to cumulative burden, not to change itself.

Relevant legislation and guidance

How to dispute it

Start with the written request. If that fails, contact Consumer and Business Services on (08) 8204 8352, and the South Australian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (SACAT).

Unresolved questions