Brisbane proposes rules to shift homes back to long-term market

Australia: Brisbane City Council has proposed new planning rules that would require short-term rental property managers in certain residential zones to obtain development approval in order to continue operating.

Under the proposal, properties located in low-density and low-to-medium residential areas would need approval from next year, alongside an annual permit. Permit fees have not yet been confirmed, but property managers who fail to comply could face fines of more than AUD 140,000.

Additional requirements would include nominating a 24-hour contact to respond to complaints, holding public liability insurance and providing house rules for guests. A three-strikes policy is also proposed, with permits revoked if properties receive three substantiated complaints within three years.

The council said the changes could return almost 500 homes to the long-term rental market. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the reforms were intended to balance tourism demand with residential amenity.

The proposal follows a council taskforce report published in 2023, which found limited evidence linking short-term rentals to rental price increases but recommended a registration or permit system to improve oversight of the sector.

Public consultation on the proposed local law will remain open until 16 February. Subject to state government approval, the regulations are expected to come into force from 1 July next year.

Highlights:

Brisbane City Council proposed new planning rules for short-term rentals in residential zones.

Property managers in low and low-to-medium density areas would need development approval to continue operating.

An annual permit would be introduced, with fees yet to be confirmed.

Non-compliance could result in fines of more than AUD 140,000.

Additional requirements include a 24-hour complaints contact, public liability insurance and guest house rules.

A three-strikes policy could see permits revoked after repeated substantiated complaints.

The council said the changes could return almost 500 homes to the long-term rental market.

Public consultation is open until 16 February, with regulations expected to take effect from 1 July next year if approved.