Australians have lost over $300,000 to rental scams in 2020, a 76% increase compared to the previous year. According to Scamwatch, there have been 560 reports of rental scams so far—up 56% from the same period in 2019.
Many of these scams use COVID-19-related tactics to exploit people searching for new accommodation.
How the Scams Work
Scammers advertise fake rental properties to lure people into sending money or personal information. These ads often appear on:
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Real estate websites
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Classifieds
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Social media platforms (especially posts from users looking for a room)
Once a victim responds, the scammer may:
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Offer a discounted rent due to COVID-19
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Claim the property cannot be inspected because of restrictions
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Request a deposit or ask victims to fill out a fake application form
After receiving the deposit or personal details, the scammer disappears or may continue requesting more money using fake excuses.
More Sophisticated Tactics
Some scammers go further by:
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Impersonating real estate agents
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Organising fake inspections
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Using stolen personal details to pose as doctors or professionals overseas—such as a common scam in Canberra involving a “doctor in Sweden”
Victims may show up to inspections only to find the property is already occupied or doesn’t exist.
Risks Beyond Financial Loss
ACCC Deputy Commissioner Delia Rickard warns that identity theft is now a growing concern. Scammers often request:
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Passports
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Bank statements
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Payslips
Once they obtain these documents, they may use them in follow-up scams or for fraudulent purposes.
Who Is Being Targeted?
People aged 25–34 are reporting the most rental scams. Most reports have come from NSW, Victoria, and the ACT.
Due to COVID-19 lockdowns, especially in areas like Victoria under level 4 restrictions, some renters feel pressure to make fast decisions without inspecting the property in person.
How to Protect Yourself
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Avoid sending money before viewing a property
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Confirm the listing exists with a reverse image search or street view
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Verify agents by checking their licensing through your state’s consumer affairs agency
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Call the agent directly using contact details sourced independently from official websites
“Scammers often avoid identification by using email. Always confirm details by phone or in person,” Rickard advises.
Additional Support and Resources
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Contact your state or territory’s consumer protection agency for advice on bond requirements and tenant rights.
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Learn how to identify rental scams and report them via Scamwatch or ReportCyber.
