If you wish to charge for utilities such as gas, electricity and water you can agree with the employee to deduct payment from the employee’s wages or salary as this is for their benefit. You can also agree with the employee to deduct rent from their salary as this is also for their benefit. Use the Authority to Deduct to formalise these deductions and keep the signed form with your employment records.

 

Accommodation Agreement templates

 

The Accommodation Agreement templates have been drafted to address some of the main issues which arise with on farm accommodation.

As the laws about accommodation vary there is a template accommodation agreement specifically for Victoria and one for NSW, Tasmania, South Australia or Western Australia.

There is also a template for shared accommodation in Victoria such as backpacker accommodation, a template for shared accommodation in Tas, WA, SA or NSW, and a Code of Conduct for shared accommodation.

There is no template for Queensland as the residential tenancy laws apply to all accommodation regardless of whether rent is charged.

 

Charging rent- NSW, Tasmania, South Australia or Western Australia

 

If you wish to charge rental and you are in NSW, Tasmania, South Australia or Western Australia then you will need to enter into a formal residential tenancy agreement in accordance with state laws. Some people find that the local real estate agent will arrange this and manage the property including performing inspections.

Each state has a residential tenancy authority website which provides information and pro forma agreements.

 

Go to the following links for the residential tenancy authority in your state: