Why You’re Not Getting Approved in Australia (Even If You Think You’re Doing Everything Right)

Janice
Jun 19
3 min read

You’ve followed all the steps. You’ve gathered your documents, written a cover letter, attended inspections, and submitted your application. Maybe you even followed up afterwards. But still.. nothing. Or worse, another rejection. If you’re wondering why you’re not getting approved in Australia, even after doing everything right, you’re not alone.

It’s frustrating, and you’re not alone.

The truth is, in Australia’s rental market, doing “everything right” does not always mean you are doing it effectively. Many renters are unknowingly making small mistakes or missing crucial steps that cost them approvals, even when they are otherwise perfectly qualified.

Still Not Getting Approved in Australia? Here’s What Might Be Going Wrong

1. Your application isn’t standing out

Most agents aren’t reading every line of every application. They are scanning quickly to shortlist tenants. If your documents aren’t labelled clearly, your cover letter is too generic, or your application lacks structure, it may be passed over without a second glance.

Even well-qualified tenants can be overlooked simply because their presentation does not build confidence.

2. You’re applying too late (or too early)

Each listing has a short window where applications are seriously considered. Too early, and the agent may not keep your file on hand. Too late, and the decision might already be made even though the listing is still online. Timing is everything.

Knowing when to start applying for rentals is key to improving your chances. Many renters don’t realise how timing alone can put them ahead or behind other applicants.

3. You’re not reading the property correctly

Some listings are already promised before they appear online. Others are kept live for compliance even though an applicant has already been chosen. If you don’t know how the system works, you might waste time applying for properties that were never truly available.

Our recent update on Sydney’s rental market in June 2025 explains why competition is so fierce and why being strategic is more important than ever.

4. Your rental history (or lack of it) is working against you

Even with stable income and good character, agents often prioritise applicants with proven Australian rental history. If you don’t have a ledger or references, you need to present extra strongly in every other area.

If you’re unsure what comes after hitting “submit,” check out what happens after you apply for a rental. Understanding the typical approval timeline can give you more control and peace of mind throughout the process.

5. You’re not using insider strategies

Most renters apply the way they assume they should, find a place, fill in the form, and hope for the best. But agents look for specific things, in a specific order. There is a strategy behind what to include, when to apply, how to follow up, and even how to position your cover letter. If you are missing these finer points, you may be getting rejected for reasons that were completely avoidable.

Feeling stuck? You are not alone, and you don’t have to figure it out alone

At Find My Home, we specialise in helping renters who are doing everything right on paper but still getting overlooked. We know how agents think, how the system works behind the scenes, and what it really takes to stand out and get approved.

We prepare your documents professionally.

We choose the right listings, not just any listings.

We apply strategically and communicate directly with agents.

We work with over 50 agencies and have helped 200+ renters get approved.

We maintain a 90%+ success rate.

If you're tired of applying and not getting results, the problem might not be you, it might be the process.