1. What is the Rent Increase Calculation?

The rent increase calculation for Canberra follows ACT rules, which limit rent increases to the lesser of 110% of the Canberra CPI or an agreed amount between landlord and tenant. This helps protect tenants from excessive rent hikes while allowing for reasonable adjustments.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the ACT rent increase formula:

Where:

• \( Canberra CPI \) — Consumer Price Index for Canberra (percentage)
• \( 1.1 \) — 110% multiplier of CPI
• \( Agreed Amount \) — Any pre-agreed maximum increase (optional)

Explanation: The calculation ensures rent increases don't exceed 110% of inflation unless both parties have agreed to a higher amount.

3. Importance of Rent Increase Calculation

Details: Proper rent increase calculations help maintain fair rental markets, protect tenants from unreasonable hikes, and ensure landlords can adjust for inflation while complying with ACT regulations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the current Canberra CPI percentage, your current rent, and optionally any agreed maximum increase. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: How often can rent be increased in Canberra?
A: In the ACT, rent can generally only be increased once every 12 months for periodic tenancies.

Q2: Where can I find the current Canberra CPI?
A: The Canberra CPI is published quarterly by the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS).

Q3: Can landlords increase rent by more than the CPI calculation?
A: Only if both parties have agreed in writing to a higher amount before the tenancy agreement was signed.

Q4: What if I think my rent increase is unfair?
A: You can contact the ACT Civil and Administrative Tribunal (ACAT) for dispute resolution.

Q5: Does this apply to all rental properties in Canberra?
A: Most residential tenancies are covered, but some exceptions may apply (e.g., some fixed-term agreements).