The Portable Rental Bond Scheme (PRBS) allows renters to transfer their bond directly from one rental property to another, so they don’t have to pay a second bond while waiting for the first to be refunded. Announced as part of the Housing Statement, the PRBS is effective 1 July 2026.
The PRBS is an optional scheme for renters. If a renter has a bond with the RTBA they may choose to port (transfer) their bond. This means:
the State will guarantee any claim that is made against the bond for the initial property.
if a claim is awarded, the State will pay the claim, and the renter will owe a debt to the State.
Overview of PRBS
Process and protections for rental providers and agents remain consistent.
The bond lodgment process remains the same - it is important to note that the Rental Provider must select the Renter Pay option when lodging a bond.
Rental Providers should confirm with the renter whether they intend to pay the RTBA directly or through the Rental Provider. To be eligible for PRBS, the renter must pay the RTBA directly.
The bond claims process is the same as any other bond. However, the claim receipt and review summary may look slightly different depending on the amount ported and the remaining balance on the bond.
When a bond you manage has been ported, you will receive a notification advising it is now under government guarantee, your interest in the bond remains fully protected.
For further information, please refer to https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/housing/renting/rent-bond-bills-and-condition-reports/bond