Big news for renters affected by floods in New South Wales

If your rental home was made uninhabitable by the severe storms and flooding on the NSW East Coast in May, you could be eligible for a new grant. The Renters Bond and Advanced Rent Grant is a one-time payment of $5,500 to help renters who need a new place to live because their old rental home became uninhabitable in this disaster.

Who can get it?

You can apply if:

1. Your rental home was in a declared disaster area before the storms and floods hit on 18 May 2025.
2. You can’t return to your rental home because it is uninhabitable due to the disaster
3. You earn less than $100,000 a year as a household (that’s under $1,923 per week)

List of Declared Disaster Areas:

What can it be used for?

The money can be used for things like:

• Paying a new rental bond
• Covering rent in advance
• Moving costs like hiring removalists
• Reconnecting utilities (think electricity, water)

When and how do you apply?

• Applications opened: 25 August 2025
• Applications close: 30 October 2025

To apply, renters can call the Housing Recovery Service on 1800 695 043. You’ll talk with someone who will check your information and help with next steps. 

You’ll need to provide the following paperwork:

• A photo ID (like a driver’s licence or passport)
• Your residential tenancy agreement (your lease)
• Proof of how much you earn (payslips or a tax statement)

Once you apply, a Homes NSW assessment officer will review your application and let you know if you’re approved or if any additional information is required.

If your rental home was damaged by the storms and floods in May and you need help with moving costs or settling somewhere new, this $5,500 grant can be a huge help. Just make sure to apply before the 30 October 2025 deadline. 

More information

• AGRN 1212 Renters Bond and Advanced Rent Grant (NSW Government)
• Disaster resources for renters (Tenants' Union)