Retail bonds

The Retail Leases Act 1994 (NSW) requires all landlords (or agents) to deposit retail lease security bonds in the Retail Bond Scheme. Bank guarantees are not affected by the operation of the Act.

The landlord may be liable for a penalty of up to $2,200 if the bond is not lodged.

The Office of the Small Business Commissioner manages the disputes that arise about the return of a bond at the end of a lease.  The first stage of dispute resolution is free.  A few matters require formal mediation and there is a nominal cost for this service.  If the dispute continues, the parties can then have the matter heard by the Administrative Decisions Tribunal.

A Bond can only be lodged with an original approved form with a unique barcode. To obtain an original form, email the Office of the Small Business Commissioner at we.assist@smallbusiness.nsw.gov.au and specify:

• the form you require (Retail Lease Bond Lodgement Form)
• the quantity required
• your postal address.