How to Apply for Rentstart Move Assistance in NSW

Last updated: April 15, 2025

Rentstart Move is a program by the NSW Department of Communities and Justice (DCJ) designed to assist eligible public housing tenants transitioning to the private rental market. This guide outlines the eligibility criteria, application process, and repayment details for Rentstart Move assistance.

What is Rentstart Move?

Rentstart Move provides an interest-free loan covering up to 100% of your rental bond when moving from public housing to private rental accommodation. The loan is repayable over time, and if there’s no claim against the bond at the end of your tenancy, the amount you repaid will be returned to you.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for Rentstart Move, you must:

Be a current public housing tenant or joint tenant.
Have no outstanding debts with DCJ Housing or be in credit.
Possess less than $5,000 in cash assets.
Not own or part-own any property.
Ensure the rent for the new private rental does not exceed 50% of your household’s total gross weekly income.
Apply before moving into the new private rental accommodation.

Note: Income limits apply based on household composition. For example, as of July 1, 2024, the maximum gross weekly income for a single adult is $1,840, and for a couple with two children, it’s $2,945. For detailed income limits, refer to the Income Limits for Rentstart Move.

Application Process

Follow these steps to apply for Rentstart Move assistance:

Find suitable private rental accommodation. Ensure the rent does not exceed 50% of your household’s gross weekly income.
Contact DCJ Housing before moving in. Visit your local public housing office or call the Housing Contact Centre at 1800 422 322 to initiate your application.
Complete the necessary forms. You may need to provide:
- Proof of identity (e.g., driver’s license, Medicare card).
- Recent bank statements and proof of income.
- Details of the private rental property.
Submit your application. Ensure all information is accurate and complete to avoid delays.

Important: You must apply for Rentstart Move assistance before moving into your new private rental. Applications submitted after moving in are not eligible.

Repayment Details

The Rentstart Move loan is interest-free. Repayment plans are tailored based on how much of your income is spent on rent. If there’s no claim against your bond at the end of your tenancy, the amount you repaid will be returned to you.

Additional Information

For more details on Rentstart Move and other rental assistance programs, visit the Service NSW Rentstart Move Assistance page.

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