Gold Coast Officials Weigh In On Short-Term Rental Regulations

The Gold Coast City Council has announced plans to introduce new regulations on short-term rentals, sparking a mix of reactions from local officials, experts, and key figures. The regulations aim to address concerns over the impact of platforms like Airbnb on the city's housing market and neighbourhood character.

The issue of short-term rental regulation has become increasingly pressing in recent months, particularly in light of the city's ongoing construction boom and tourism recovery efforts. With the 2032 Olympics on the horizon, the Gold Coast is expecting a significant influx of visitors, putting additional pressure on the local accommodation market. The new regulations are seen as a crucial step in balancing the needs of tourists, residents, and property owners.

In the Gold Coast, areas like Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, and Burleigh Heads have seen a high concentration of short-term rentals, with many properties being listed on platforms like Airbnb. The Gold Coast Tourism Corporation and the Queensland Hotels Association have been working closely with the city council to develop regulations that will support the local tourism industry while also protecting the interests of residents. For example, the council has proposed designating specific zones for short-term rentals, such as the area around the Coomera Sports Centre and the Robina Stadium, which are slated to be used as venues for the 2032 Olympics.

Regulation Details and Data

According to data from the Gold Coast City Council, there are currently over 12,000 short-term rental properties listed on platforms like Airbnb, with an average nightly rate of $120. The new regulations propose introducing a registration system for short-term rental operators, as well as stricter rules around noise, waste, and parking. The council estimates that the regulations will affect around 70% of short-term rental properties in the city, with compliance costs expected to range from $500 to $2,000 per property. As of June 2026, the council has received over 500 submissions from residents and property owners regarding the proposed regulations.

Looking ahead, the city council will be holding a series of community consultation sessions to gather feedback on the proposed regulations. Residents and property owners are encouraged to attend and share their perspectives on the issue. The council aims to finalize the regulations by the end of 2026, with implementation expected to begin in early 2027. In the meantime, property owners and operators are advised to review the proposed regulations and prepare for the potential changes ahead, particularly in areas like Palm Beach, Currumbin, and Tugun, which are expected to be impacted by the new rules.