Being away from your home - absence notification and approvals

If you are going to be away from your home for more than 6 weeks, you need to complete the appointment of an agent form.

If you don’t tell us, or do not return on the date you stated, we may take action to terminate your tenancy.

How long can I be away from my home?

You can be away from your home for up to 6 months. In special cases, you can apply to extend the absence beyond 6 months. However, you should discuss this with your client service officer.

What are acceptable absences?

Acceptable reasons for absences up to 6 months include:

• caring for sick or frail family members
• hospitalisation, institutional care, nursing home care or rehabilitation
• escaping domestic violence, harassment or threats of violence
• assisting with immigration matters in your country of origin
• holidays
• employment, education or training
• tenants going to prison.

Approving an absence from your home

We will approve your absence from your home if we are satisfied that:

• you have made arrangements to pay your tenancy charges, such as rent and water usage, while you are away
• the property will be adequately cared for while you are away
• there is an acceptable reason for you going away
• you have appointed an agent to act on your behalf while you are away (the agent must be over 18 years of age)

Reviewing the decision

If you disagree with the decision we’ve made, talk to your client service officer. If you’re still not satisfied, you can ask to have the decision reviewed. For more information visit appeals and reviewing decisions.