That’s why the changes to the Tasmanian rental laws are such a big deal for renters and pet owners. As of 20 March 2026, tenants now have more rights to keep pets in rental homes, with landlords no longer able to apply blanket “no pets” rules.
It’s a change that brings Tasmania inline with other states around Australia and reflects something many people already know: life’s just better with a pet by your side.‡
What’s changing?
Under the new laws, renters can formally request permission to keep a pet in their rental property. Landlords still have the right to refuse in certain situations, but only on reasonable grounds such as genuine safety concerns, property suitability or risk of damage.
There are also clearer rules and timelines around the process:
Tenants need to submit a formal pet request before bringing a pet into the property
Landlords have 14 days to respond
Blanket “no pets” clauses are no longer allowed
Any refusal may need to be reviewed through TASCAT (Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal)
Importantly, tenants are still responsible for any damage caused by pets beyond normal wear and tear.
Why it matters
Animal welfare groups have welcomed the reforms, saying they’ll help keep families and pets together while easing pressure on shelters.
For many renters, the old system meant difficult choices between securing housing and keeping a much-loved companion. Anyone who’s ever had a dog greet them at the door after a long day or a cat curl up beside them on the couch knows how important that companionship can be.
The changes also recognise a shift in modern renting. More people are renting for longer, and more households include pets. Making rentals more pet-friendly simply reflects the way many people already live.
A good outcome for renters and landlords
While the reforms are great news for pet owners, they’re designed to balance the needs of landlords too.
The legislation still allows property owners to refuse pets where there are legitimate concerns, and renters are expected to do the right thing by caring for the property and their animals responsibly.
In fact, many property managers say pet-friendly rentals can attract long-term tenants who are keen to stay put - something that can benefit everyone involved.
A more pet-friendly future
Tasmania has long been known for loving animals, so these reforms feel like a natural next step.
For renters, it means less stress when searching for a home. For pets, it means fewer families being forced to make heartbreaking decisions. And for many Tasmanians, it means a future where finding a rental home doesn’t have to mean leaving a furry family member behind.
Petinsurance.com.au policies entered into for the first time on or after 7 November 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by PetSure’s Authorised Representatives (AR) Pet Insurance Pty Ltd ABN 38 607 160 930, AR 1234944 (PIPL) and The Royal Automobile Club of Tasmania Limited ABN 62 009 475 861, AR 228578. Petinsurance.com.au policies entered into for the first time prior to 7 November 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted and distributed by PIPL. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsurance.com.au.
**This offer only applies to RACT members who purchase a new RACT together with Petinsurance.com.au Pet Insurance policy between 12:01am AEST on 1 September 2025 and 11:59pm AEST on 1 July 2026 (Offer Period). Offer provides RACT members with a 10% discount on their new RACT together with Petinsurance.com.au Pet Insurance Policy premiums each year, whilst the policy remains in force, with all premiums paid in full, and while you remain a RACT Member (Member Offer). For instalment payers, the Offer is applied proportionately across all instalment payments during each year you remain eligible for the Member Discount. For annual payers, the Offer is applied automatically to your annual premium amount each policy year that you remain eligible for the Member Discount. This Offer will also provide RACT members with 1 month free in their first policy year only when they purchase a new RACT together with Petinsurance.com.au Pet Insurance Policy during the Offer Period (1-Month Free Offer). Instalment payers will not be charged an instalment for the first month and instalments will be charged from the second month of your policy period. Annual payers will have the 1 month free deducted from the annual premium at the time of purchase. To enjoy the Member Offer and 1-Month Free Offer, you must provide the promotional code RACTMEM1MF10 and a valid RACT Member number at the time of purchase. Customers can remove this Offer at the time of purchase. Not available with any other offer except for the multi-pet discount for additional pets. Excludes RACT staff members. Both the Member Offer and the 1-Month Free Offer are subject to RACT together with Petinsurance.com.au Pet Insurance Policy T&C’s available https://www.ract.com.au/insurance-and-finance/pet-insurance . Eligibility criteria applies, refer to the Product Disclosure Statement. RACT together with Petinsurance.com.au reserves the right to withdraw, vary or extend these Offer’s at any time, without notice.
‡For more information please visit https://cbos.tas.gov.au/topics/housing/renting/beginning-tenancy/pets