Keeping pets

You’ll need written approval from Mission Australia Housing before getting a pet. Our Housing team can provide an application form.

We’ll consider:

• The size and layout of your home
• The type and number of pets
• Any impact on neighbours
• The suitability of your housing program

You’ll receive a letter with the decision and any conditions (like how many pets are allowed). In some cases, a home visit may be needed.

Pets can bring joy and companionship, but they also come with responsibilities. As a tenant, you are expected to care for your pet’s health and behaviour, and make sure they don’t negatively affect others.

You are responsible for ensuring your pet does not cause issues for neighbours — such as excessive noise, mess, or property damage. If your pet causes ongoing problems (like frequent barking or nuisance behaviour), your local council may get involved, and it could be considered a breach of your lease agreement.

Keeping a pet without permission is a breach of your tenancy.

What happens:

• You’ll be asked to remove the pet
• If not removed, we may take the matter to the tenancy tribunal or court

If there’s barking, mess, or other problems:

• Speak to your Housing Officer
• You can also contact your local council for help. Councils can investigate nuisance complaints and may issue orders if needed.

If you’re unhappy with a decision, you can lodge an appeal. See our Appeals and Complaints Fact Sheet.

In NSW if you disagree with a decision to keep a pet you will need to appeal the decision through the NSW Civil and Administrative Tribunal (NCAT).

• Always ask for permission first
• Keep your pet healthy and well-behaved
• Clean up after them
• Be considerate of neighbours
• If you’re unsure, speak to us

See our Keeping Pets Policy