How Long Does It Take to Get Approved for a Rental in Australia?

You’ve found a place, inspected it, submitted your application… and now you’re waiting. But how long should it actually take to get approved for a rental in Australia?

The truth is, there’s no fixed timeline. Approvals can take anywhere from a few hours to more than a week, depending on several factors. If you’re renting for the first time, understanding what affects the process can help you avoid unnecessary delays or stress.

Typical Approval Time: 1 to 5 Business Days

Most agencies aim to give you a response within one to five business days after applying. In some cases, approvals can come through within 24 hours, especially if your documents are in order and the property is in high demand.

At Find My Home, we’ve helped many clients get approved in as little as 24 to 48 hours thanks to a well-prepared and professional approach. Our average turnaround is consistently faster than most renters experience on their own.

What Can Delay Getting Rental Approved in Australia?

Several common issues can slow things down:

• Missing or incomplete documents

  (e.g. ID, income proof, visa, references).

  
  

• Not attending the inspection

  Many agencies require someone to physically view the property. If you’re overseas or unavailable, this guide explains what to do if you can’t attend the inspection yourself.

  
  

• Slow referees or employer response

  If your references don't respond quickly, the application can be delayed.

  
  

• High competition

  In popular suburbs, agencies often hold off until they’ve received multiple applications.

  
  

• Agency workload

  During peak times like January or July, processing times can stretch out.

  
  

How Transparent Are Agents With You?

One of the most frustrating parts of the process is the lack of updates. Some agents may not tell you if they’re reviewing other applicants. You could be left waiting, only to find out much later that someone else was approved.

At Find My Home, we maintain strong relationships with over 50 agencies. This helps us stay informed about application progress and get faster, more honest updates. If you're not likely to be approved, we find out early and can quickly pivot to a new property.

Our clients often tell us that this transparency is one of the biggest reasons they feel more confident and less stressed during the process.

Can You Speed Up the Process?

Yes and many renters don’t realise how much of it is within their control. Here’s what helps:

1. Apply immediately after the inspection

   The faster you apply, the better your chances.

   
   

2. Submit everything upfront

   Double check that your documents are complete and easy to read. If you’re unsure what’s required, this article on common renter mistakes can help you avoid delays before they happen.

   
   

3. Choose referees who respond quickly

   Let your referees know they’ll be contacted. Delays in replies can slow down approvals.

   
   

4. Provide strong financial evidence

   Bank statements, employment letters or savings help build confidence with the agent or landlord.

   
   

5. Work with someone who understands the process

   Find My Home submits well-presented applications that are pre-checked with agents, which means fewer questions and faster results.

   
   

What to Do While You Wait

• Avoid submitting too many applications at once, it can damage your rental profile

• Follow up politely after two to three business days

• Keep your phone and email handy for agent responses or lease paperwork

  
  

If you haven’t heard back within a week, it’s completely fine to check in. If you’re experiencing repeat rejections, it may be worth rethinking your strategy or documents. This article breaks down the most common renter pitfalls and how to fix them.

Final Thought

Rental approval times can vary, but many of the common delays are preventable. Being well-prepared, responsive and realistic gives you the best chance of getting approved quickly and with less stress.

And if you’re looking for better communication and faster results, Find My Home can help. With trusted agent relationships, clear updates and streamlined applications, we help you secure the right place, faster.

Need help with your rental search? We’re here when you’re ready. Contact us on WhatsApp now to learn more!