South Australia’s rental reforms are rolling out in stages, and one of the most significant changes is set to take effect from 1 January 2026: the introduction of a standardised rental application form (Form A1).
The new form will replace the variety of different formats currently in use, creating consistency across the state and ensuring a clearer, fairer process for both tenants and landlords.
What is the new rental application?
The new Form A1 rental application is being introduced to replace the variety of different forms currently used by landlords, property managers, and real estate agencies across South Australia.
Right now, each agency or landlord can use their own format, often leading to inconsistencies, missing information, or confusion about what’s required. In some cases, applicants may even be asked to provide information that is unnecessary or inappropriate.
From January 2026, every tenant applying for a rental property will use the same standard form, creating a level playing field across the state and protecting applicants’ privacy.
Why introduce a standard rental application form?
The main goal of the standardised rental application is consistency and clarity.
- Simplified process – every application form will look the same.
- Fairer applications – all applicants will be asked for the same details.
- Stronger privacy protections – irrelevant or intrusive questions won’t be allowed.
Another important driver of this reform is fairness and privacy. Currently, some landlords and agents may ask for intrusive or irrelevant personal information. The standardised rental application is designed to limit that practice by ensuring only necessary questions are included.
This means tenants won’t feel pressured to hand over information that could put them at a disadvantage, while landlords still receive the details they legitimately need to make a decision.
What it means for tenants
For tenants, the new rental application brings several benefits:
- Simplified process – every application form will look the same.
- Fairer applications – all applicants will be asked for the same details.
- Stronger privacy protections – irrelevant or intrusive questions won’t be allowed.
In short, tenants will know exactly what information they need to provide, with no surprises along the way.
What it means for landlords
For landlords, the new rental application means less uncertainty and less paperwork. Your property manager will ensure the standardised form is rolled out and in use ahead of the January 2026 deadline.
How to prepare for the change
Even though the Form A1 rental application doesn’t become mandatory until 1 January 2026, it’s worth being aware now.
- Tenants: Familiarise yourself with the form once it becomes publicly available, so you know what to expect when applying.
- Landlords: Understand that your property manager will be required to use Form A1 from January 2026, so you can expect to see it introduced in the months ahead.
The introduction of a standardised rental application is a key part of South Australia’s rental reforms. While it may seem like a small administrative shift, it has the potential to create a clearer, fairer, and more consistent rental process for everyone involved.
By being aware of the change now, both tenants and landlords will know what to expect when the form becomes mandatory on 1 January 2026.
This article is general in nature and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please consult your professional advisor before making any decisions.