In every state and territory, a specific domestic violence process lets you end a tenancy (or your part of a shared one) early, usually without paying a lease break fee.
If the perpetrator is a co-tenant, most jurisdictions let you have them removed from the lease so you and any children can stay in the property.
You cannot lawfully be listed on a tenancy database because you ended a lease due to domestic violence, or because of damage the perpetrator caused.
You are generally not responsible for property damage or rent arrears caused by the perpetrator, provided you can show the damage relates to the violence.
Tap your state or territory for the name of the process, roughly what it involves, and a link to the official page with current forms and evidence requirements.
Domestic Violence Termination Notice (DVTN)
Ends the tenancy immediately with no break fee. You'll need one form of evidence, such as a statement from a family violence support worker, health practitioner, police, or a similar professional.
NSW Government: ending a tenancy because of domestic violenceApplication to VCAT
Victoria doesn't use a simple self-signed notice. Instead you (or a support worker on your behalf) apply to VCAT to end or transfer the tenancy. These applications are fast-tracked and usually heard within a few business days.
VCAT: residential tenancies and family violenceNotice ending tenancy interest (Form 20)
Gives 7 days' notice to end your interest in the tenancy. Evidence can include a domestic violence order, a police protection notice or direction, or a statement from a recognised support service.
RTA Queensland: Form 20Notice of Termination on Grounds of Family Violence
Gives 7 days' notice with supporting evidence attached. The landlord cannot charge any fee or cost for leaving early under this process.
Consumer Protection WA: family violence and rentingNotice of Termination on Grounds of Domestic Abuse
Can end the tenancy immediately with evidence (typically an intervention order plus a signed report from an authorised professional), or give 7 days' notice if you need to move into crisis accommodation.
Consumer and Business Services SA: domestic abuse and rentingFamily and Domestic Violence Termination Notice
Gives 7 days' notice with evidence attached, without needing to go to court or the Tasmanian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.
CBOS Tasmania: family violence and rentingFamily Violence Termination Notice
Ends the lease at any time with no break fee, supported by one piece of evidence such as a court order or a statutory declaration.
ACT Government: ending a tenancy due to domestic or family violenceTermination under the Residential Tenancies Act
Since 2024 reforms, you can terminate a tenancy because of domestic violence and won't be liable for expenses that arise after the date of termination.
NT Consumer Affairs: ending a tenancyThis page is general information, not legal advice. Tenancy law changes over time and every situation is different, so please confirm the current process and evidence requirements on your state or territory's official page above, or speak to a tenancy advocacy service or community legal centre for advice on your specific circumstances.
For confidential support, call 1800RESPECT on 1800 737 732, 24/7.