A rental application in Victoria is a formal request to lease a property, requiring applicants to provide documentation verifying their identity, income, and rental history. As of December 2025, rental applications are almost exclusively submitted online through platforms like ApplyNow or directly via the managing agency’s portal.
Currently in Melbourne, particularly within the Eastern Suburbs, competition for rental properties remains strong. Agents and landlords typically require a completed application form, 100 points of identification, proof of income (payslips, employment contract, or bank statements), and a rental history reference. Increasingly, applicants are also providing a cover letter outlining their suitability. Landlords favour applicants demonstrating stable employment and a positive rental record. In 2026, we anticipate a continued emphasis on comprehensive applications due to the tight rental market. It’s also becoming more common for agents to pre-qualify applicants before inspections, meaning a strong application submitted promptly is crucial. Fletchers’ property management team observes that well-presented applications, even with a slightly lower offer, can often be successful. The process generally takes 7-14 days from application to approval.
Submitting a complete and accurate rental application is the first step towards securing a property in Victoria’s competitive rental landscape.