AustraliaA landlord refused to rent to me because I use a wheelchair. Is this discrimination?
Yes, refusing to rent to you because you use a wheelchair is unlawful discrimination under Australian federal and state anti-discrimination laws.
What the Law Says
Australian law prohibits discrimination in housing based on disability, including use of a wheelchair. The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) makes it unlawful for landlords to refuse tenancy on this ground.
The Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth) protects people with disabilities — including those who use wheelchairs — from unfair treatment when renting residential premises.
Under this law, it is unlawful for a landlord to refuse to rent, or to impose different terms or conditions, because of a person’s disability — unless the landlord can show that making reasonable adjustments would cause 'unjustifiable hardship'.
The Act applies across all states and territories, and operates alongside state and territory anti-discrimination laws (e.g., Equal Opportunity Act 2010 (Vic), Anti-Discrimination Act 1977 (NSW)), which contain similar protections.
Statutory TextIt is unlawful for a person to discriminate against another person on the ground of disability...
— Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth), s. 24 — Discrimination in relation to accommodation
Statutory TextA person must not... refuse to allow another person to apply for accommodation; or... refuse to grant accommodation to another person...
— Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth), s. 24(1)(a)–(b)
What to Do
Contact the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC) to make a free, confidential complaint within 12 months of the incident.
Gather evidence such as emails, text messages, witness names, or notes of conversations with the landlord.
Ask the landlord in writing to explain their decision — this may prompt resolution or help support your complaint.
Consider seeking advice from your state or territory anti-discrimination body (e.g., Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission).
If unresolved, the AHRC may attempt conciliation; if unsuccessful, you may apply to the Federal Court or Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia.
Sources
Not legal advice. This article is general information based on publicly available sources, written for educational purposes. Laws change and individual situations vary. Consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction before acting on anything you read here. Last reviewed: 2026-06-08.