Paying a letting fee - Rights?

I've been told I have to put $270 letting fee down for this place, which I have no problems with because I can understand they need some money as an indication that we WILL be moving into the place, and to hold it for us etc

But my WINZ appointment isn't until Monday morning first thing, my Dad says that he doesn't think it sounds right that I should be putting money down on the place when I haven't got the approval from WINZ just yet (which is understandable- I can see his side of things) ...but at this stage I'm meant to be moving in later next week but we are looking at seeing if i can wait until after xmas/but before new years (im guessing this is where the letting fee would be required to hold the place for us).

Anyone have experience in this field or know what my rights are in regards to paying it ...I have the money (only just) and Im 99% sure everything will be ok with WINZ but when you think about it - its kinda like putting a downpayment on a car before being approved for finance

Yup, they should be happy to wait until Monday it's only a couple of days anyway.

Yeah you're right Nikki, it sure does. Well I've got the letter with all the fees, bond and rent in advance etc for WINZ.

I rang and spoke to the agent, asked lots of questions and she said i don't have to pay the letting fee until after I get the approval from winz and have had another look inside the place and showed Dad around it to get the OK from him. She's being very flexible and understanding which is fantastic.

Thanks ladies for the heads up though