The Queensland Government has announced an investigation into the impacts of short-term rentals, like Airbnb, on the state’s housing supply.
The Deputy Premier and Minister for Planning Steven Miles said there had been growing concerns about the increasing number of properties on sites like Airbnb and Stayz and its impact on the already tight rental market.
“The current rental market is very tight in many areas across Queensland,” Minister Miles said.
“People are seeing their rent increased or are struggling to find an available rental near their work or kids’ school.”
Minister Miles admitted the state government wasn’t clear about what impact these short-term rental properties were having on the market.
“That’s why we’re announcing we will commission a body of research to understand the impact properties placed on short-term rental sites such as AirBnB and Stayz has on the market,” he said.
“This work will provide some detailed analysis into the positive and negative impacts of short-term rental accommodation on housing affordability and availability, the tourism industry, property owners and Queensland’s cities and regional communities.
“It will also identify if the impact is the same across Queensland or if the experience varies across different regions.”
Mr Miles said that while the number of short-term rental properties was relatively small in comparison to the entire housing sector, the Government would look at all avenues that may result in an increase in properties being available for longer term rental.
“We are listening to the community, industry, councils and other stakeholders, who have raised these concerns on both sides,” Mr Miles said.
“The research will consider a range of regulatory and non-regulatory options, including those being used in other jurisdictions and provide a solid base of information to underpin any framework changes in Queensland.
“There are many factors here, including Queensland being the nation’s tourism capital and having suitable accommodation for international, interstate and intrastate visitors is vital for businesses and communities.”
The investigation is expected to be completed by the end of 2022.
