Residents have been invited to have their say on the future of short-stay accommodation in Brisbane with the launch of a new community survey today.
The survey is an initiative of the Short-Stay Accommodation Taskforce which was announced as part of the Schrinner Council’s 2023-24 Budget to regulate the fast-growing sector.
Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the survey would be critical in striking the balance between the economic benefits of short-stay accommodation and the concerns of residents.
“The launch of this survey comes off the back of a blockbuster weekend of events, with thousands of people staying in our city for the Women’s World Cup, Ekka and two footy games,” Cr Schrinner said.
“More and more people will be visiting our city as we continue to build on the momentum of hosting the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
“While the short-stay accommodation sector is an important economic driver during major events, we need to make sure impacts on neighbours are limited.
“If you’ve lived next door to, used, or listed a short-stay property, we want you to have your say to help us identify what improvements could be made.”
Opening Monday 14 August and closing Saturday 30 September, the survey will seek the feedback of property owners, bodies corporate, short-stay platforms, and the wider community to inform future regulation of the sector.
The survey questions will cover the impact of short-term accommodation, its benefits and challenges, and provide participants the opportunity to provide their views on best-practice to help maintain a strong economy and liveable city.
Taskforce Chair Councillor Fiona Cunningham said Council will continue to roll out its transitory accommodation rating policy while the work of the Taskforce was being completed.
“Last year, Council introduced new rating categories for transitory accommodation to discourage owners from removing properties from the long-term rental market,” Cr Cunningham said.
“We lifted this Transitory Accommodation Rating category surcharge as part of the 2023-24 Budget from 50 to 65 per cent, to bring them more in line with commercial rates and to recognise the higher regulatory costs of managing the complaints that these properties generate.
“The introduction of this ground-breaking policy generated interest from other jurisdictions right across Australia, highlighting the lack of regulation this industry currently experiences.
“This is a challenge currently being experienced worldwide, and we hope the survey provides a clearer view of how we can improve things here in our own backyard.”
For more information about the Short-stay Accommodation Taskforce, visit Council’s website at www.brisbane.qld.gov.au or call Council on 3403 8888.
Head to www.adrianschrinner.com.au/brisbane-news to keep up to date with what’s happening in Brisbane.
