What is the cooling-off period for a retail lease in QLD?

A cooling-off period is a statutory right for a retail tenant to terminate their lease shortly after signing. In Queensland, this is provided for by section 22 of the Retail Shop Leases Act 1994 (Qld).

When Does the Cooling-Off Right Apply?

The 7-day cooling-off period only applies in two specific circumstances:

1. Disclosure Failure: The landlord failed to provide a compliant Disclosure Statement at least 7 days before the lease was entered into.
2. False or Misleading Information: The Disclosure Statement contained materially false or misleading information.

Timing is Critical

The cooling-off right starts from the date of execution (when the lease was signed by both parties). The tenant must give the landlord a written notice of termination within the 7-day window.

When is the Cooling-Off Right Lost?

The cooling-off right is lost if the tenant has already taken possession of the premises. This means you should not accept keys or begin any fitout works during the 7-day cooling-off period if you have any concerns about the adequacy of the Disclosure Statement.

Refund of Monies

If the tenant validly terminates the lease under the cooling-off provision, they are entitled to a full refund of any money already paid to the landlord under the lease.

For more information, see our Full Retail Leasing Guide .

Read our Complete Startup Legal Guide for Queensland