Ending your tenancy

You can end your tenancy with MAH at any time.

Here's what to do:

• You must give notice
• Give written notice with your planned move-out date and property address.
• Follow the notice period rules for your state or territory. If you're unsure, your Housing Officer can help check the correct timeframe.

You don’t need to give a reason, but if you do, it helps us understand your situation and offer the right support.

You may be able to give less notice if:

• You or your child are experiencing domestic or family violence
• You’ve been offered housing by another social housing provider (only 7 days’ notice needed)
• You’ve had exceptional circumstances, talk to your Housing Officer

If you're transferring to another MAH property, your current tenancy will end as part of that move. See the Transfers and Other Changes to Tenancy Policy for more info.

• MAH will send you a confirmation letter and contact you to explain what you need to do.
• We will do a pre-vacate inspection and give you a checklist to help you prepare.
• You can withdraw your notice any time before your move-out date if you change your mind.

Before you leave, make sure:

• The property is clean and in good condition (fair wear and tear is okay)
• You’ve removed all items from the home, outside sheds, storage areas, and yard.
• Your rent and other charges are up to date and paid.

Your lease ends when your notice period finishes and you return the keys.

This is called handing the property back. You are responsible for the property and rent payments until both the notice period has ended and the keys are returned to Mission Australia Housing (MAH). Please hand in all keys on the day you move or the next morning. Rent continues during the notice period and until keys are returned.

We’ll do a final inspection and compare it to the original condition report. You are welcome to attend. This helps us fairly assess any cleaning, damage, or repairs that may affect your bond.

Support is available when your tenancy ends. MAH staff can assist with:

• Referrals to legal, tenancy or support services.
• Updating your contact details so we can reach you if needed.
• Information about moving support, disconnection of utilities, and other practical steps.

Guidance on what to do next and who to contact for further help

While MAH doesn’t provide rental references, we can give you a tenancy history statement. This includes a category rating (e.g. satisfactory, unsatisfactory) and can be useful when applying for housing elsewhere.

If you disagree with your rating, you can ask for a review, just speak to the Housing team.

If you’re unhappy with our service you can lodge a complaint. See our Appeals and Complaints Fact Sheet.  

See our Ending Tenancies Policy for more information.