Retail Shop Lease Disclosure Requirements in Queensland

Introduction

Before signing a retail shop lease in Queensland, both landlords (lessors) and tenants must comply with strict disclosure requirements under the Retail Shop Leases Act 1994 (Qld).

Disclosure statements are not just a formality — they provide essential information that helps tenants make informed decisions before committing to a lease.

For businesses in Brisbane’s retail precincts — from Queen Street Mall and South Bank to Chermside and Carindale — understanding these disclosure rules is critical. Failure to comply can lead to lease termination rights, compensation claims, or costly disputes.

At Greyson Legal, as retail leasing lawyers in Brisbane we regularly advise clients about Lessor Disclosure Statements.

Retail Shop

What Is a Retail Shop Lease Disclosure Statement and Why It Matters

A retail shop lease disclosure statement (called a Form 7 Lessor Disclosure Statement) is a statutory document that outlines key commercial and legal terms of a proposed lease.

It gives the prospective tenant a clear snapshot of what they are agreeing to — including:

• Rent amount and review mechanisms

• Outgoings and operating expenses (e.g., rates, insurance, cleaning)

• Fit-out responsibilities and contributions

• Trading hours

• Term of the lease and options for renewal

• Any relocation or demolition clauses

• etc

The purpose of disclosure is transparency. It ensures the tenant understands the true costs and conditions of leasing the retail premises before they commit.

Timelines and Delivery Requirements

The Retail Shop Leases Act 1994 (Qld) sets strict deadlines for providing disclosure:

For Landlords (Lessors):

• The landlord must give the Lessors Disclosure Statement to the tenant at least 7 days before the tenant enters into the lease (including signing an agreement to lease).

  
  

For Tenants:

• The tenant must provide a Lessee Disclosure Statement to the landlord before entering into the lease, confirming they have received and understood the landlord’s disclosure.

  
  

Failure to satisfy the statutory requirements can cause complications for the respective parties.

What Happens If the Landlord Fails to Disclose

Non-compliance can have serious legal consequences for landlords.

If the landlord:

• Fails to provide a compliant disclosure statement; or

• Provides misleading, false, or incomplete information,

then the tenant may have the right to terminate the lease within 6 months after entering into it.

In some cases, the tenant may also seek compensation for losses suffered because of the inadequate disclosure — such as unexpected outgoings or fit-out costs.

This is particularly relevant in Brisbane’s shopping centres and retail complexes, where leases often include complex provisions for common-area costs and promotional levies.

Proper disclosure helps avoid disputes and maintains goodwill between landlords and tenants.

How a Retail Leasing Lawyer in Brisbane Ensures Compliance

Engaging a lawyer familiar with Queensland’s retail leasing laws can prevent costly mistakes.

At Greyson Legal | Brisbane retail leasing lawyers we:

• Review disclosure statements for accuracy and compliance with the Retail Shop Leases Act 1994 (Qld).

• Assist tenants in understanding disclosure contents — including rent, incentives, and outgoings.

• Identify risks or hidden costs before signing a lease.

• Assist clients to negotiate lease amendments.

• Help resolve disputes where disclosure obligations have been breached.

We combines legal precision with local market insight, giving clients the confidence to proceed with clarity — whether leasing in Brisbane CBD, Fortitude Valley, or suburban retail hubs like Chermside, Capalaba, or Garden City.

Conclusion

Disclosure statements are at the heart of fair retail leasing in Queensland. For landlords, they are a legal obligation; for tenants, they are a vital safeguard.

If you are entering into a retail shop lease in Brisbane, make sure your disclosure obligations are handled correctly. Early legal advice can save you from disputes, termination risks, and financial loss later.

Need expert advice on a retail shop lease disclosure? Contact Greyson Legal — your trusted retail leasing lawyers in Brisbane — for clear, practical legal support.