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 has gained significant attention in recent months, particularly in areas like Surfers Paradise and Main Beach, where the proliferation of short-term rentals has led to concerns over noise, parking, and strain on local infrastructure. With the 2032 Olympics on the horizon, the city is under pressure to balance the needs of tourists and residents, making the regulation of short-term rentals a pressing matter. The Queensland Government has also been involved in the discussion, with the Minister for Tourism, Innovation and Sport, Stirling Hinchliffe, highlighting the importance of finding a balance between supporting the tourism industry and protecting the rights of residents.

Local Perspectives

According to a spokesperson for the Gold Coast Tourism Corporation, the new regulations will help to ensure that the city's tourism industry is sustainable and responsible. The Corporation has been working closely with the City Council to develop guidelines that will support local businesses and residents. Meanwhile, the Queensland Hotels Association has expressed concerns that the regulations may unfairly impact small businesses and accommodation providers. The Association's CEO, Bernie McGann, has called for a more nuanced approach that takes into account the diverse needs of different stakeholders. In areas like Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta, local business owners are watching the developments closely, as the regulations are likely to have a significant impact on their operations.

Data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that the number of short-term rentals on the Gold Coast has increased by over 20% in the past year, with the average nightly rate rising to $250. The City Council has reported that it has received over 500 complaints about noise and disruption related to short-term rentals in the past 12 months, with the majority of these complaints coming from residents in areas like Chevron Island and Isle of Capri. As of June 2026, there are over 12,000 registered short-term rentals on the Gold Coast, with the majority of these properties located in the coastal suburbs.

As the City Council moves forward with the new regulations, residents and business owners are advised to stay informed about the changes and how they may be affected. The Council has announced plans to hold public consultations and information sessions in the coming months, which will provide an opportunity for stakeholders to have their say. In the meantime, property owners and managers are encouraged to review the proposed regulations and consider how they may need to adapt their operations to comply. With the regulations expected to come into effect by the end of 2026, it is essential that all stakeholders are prepared for the changes ahead.