07 3555 6333Understanding Queensland’s New Property Law Act
Queensland’s new Property Law Act is due to commence on 1 August 2025, replacing legislation that has been in place since 1974.
This long-awaited reform aims to modernise the state’s approach to property dealings and is expected to bring greater clarity to all parties involved with a property exchange.
If you're buying, selling or managing property in Queensland, take a moment to understand what these changes mean and how they may affect you. If you have questions, you can always contact the property law specialists at NPR Law.
Why the Queensland Property Law Act is changing
The Property Law Act 1974 has set Queensland’s property framework for almost 50 years, but as the property landscape has increased in complexity, the need for an updated, more consistent legal foundation has become obvious.
The new Property Law Act aims to:
- Simplify and modernise outdated legal language
- Provide consistency across property transactions
- Strengthen consumer protection, especially around disclosure
This is a comprehensive overhaul, particularly relating to the way contracts are prepared, how disclosures are made, and how responsibilities are shared between parties.
What’s changing under the new legislation
One of the most talked-about updates to Queensland property law is the introduction of a standardised seller disclosure regime. This will apply to almost all freehold land in Queensland, including residential homes, commercial sites and rural properties.
Here’s a breakdown of the key changes:
1. Mandatory seller disclosure
From August, sellers must provide a disclosure statement and a set of prescribed certificates (documents defined by regulation) to buyers before a contract is signed. This replaces the current ‘patchwork’ of legal and contractual obligations with a consistent set of requirements.
2. Stricter rules around timing and accuracy
Disclosure documents must be given at the right time and contain accurate information. Failing to share these documents gives buyers a statutory right to terminate the contract — right up until settlement — even if no loss has occurred.
3. Double disclosure for option deeds
In contracts involving an option and a nominee, sellers must disclose information twice: once before the option deed is signed, and again before the nominee contract is executed. If this step is missed, the contract could be invalid.
4. Clearer rules for co-ownership, leasing and deeds
The new Act also simplifies rules around joint ownership structures, lease agreements and the formal requirements for deeds, which could streamline future dealings for investors and property managers.
You can view the government’s new approved disclosure forms here.
What the new Property Law Act means for property owners and investors
For buyers:
The new law offers stronger legal protection. With standardised disclosure across most property types, you’ll have more certainty about what’s being presented before signing a contract. However, the prescribed documents won’t cover everything — thorough due diligence will still be essential.
For sellers:
The changes introduce new risks and responsibilities. If you miss a document or include incorrect information, the buyer may walk away at any time before settlement. Legal advice and document checks will be more important than ever to protect the deal.
For investors and property managers:
The updated Property Act’s streamlined rules around leasing, co-ownership and deeds may simplify long-term management. However, it’s worth reviewing existing lease agreements ahead of the transition, to check for potential conflicts.
Preparing for the August 2025 transition
The new Queensland Property Law Act comes into effect on 1 August 2025. Contracts signed on or after that date must comply with the new requirements in full.
At NPR Law, we’re already helping clients prepare for the change. Whether you’re selling property next year, reviewing your investment strategy or just want to understand what’s changing, we’re here to guide you through the process with clarity and confidence.
Understanding Qld’s New Property Law Act: NPR Law can help
If you have any questions or need expert assistance to ensure you meet all legal requirements for a property sale or purchase, call us on 07 3555 6333 or get in touch with our Queensland property law specialists by visiting our contact page to email us.