Gold Coast Residents Speak Out on Short-Term Rental Regulation

Over 1,000 submissions have been received by the Gold Coast City Council regarding the proposed regulation of short-term rentals, with many residents expressing concerns about the impact on their neighbourhoods. The council is considering stricter rules for platforms like Airbnb, which has over 6,000 listings in the Gold Coast area.

The issue of short-term rental regulation has become a pressing concern for the Gold Coast community, particularly in areas like Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, and Burleigh Heads, where the number of short-term rentals has increased significantly in recent years. The Gold Coast is preparing to host the 2032 Olympics, with venues planned for Coomera and Robina, and the city is experiencing a construction boom, which has put additional pressure on the housing market. The council's decision on short-term rental regulation will have a significant impact on the city's tourism industry, as well as the quality of life for residents.

Local Impact

In areas like Chevron Island and Isle of Capri, residents have reported noise disturbances, overcrowding, and concerns about safety and security. The Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce has expressed support for the regulation of short-term rentals, citing the need to balance the needs of tourists with the rights of residents. The council has proposed a number of measures, including requiring hosts to obtain a licence and imposing stricter rules on noise and occupancy. Organisations like the Gold Coast Tourism Corporation and the Queensland Hotel Association have also been involved in the consultation process.

According to data from the Gold Coast City Council, the number of short-term rentals in the city has increased by over 20% in the past year, with the average nightly rate for a short-term rental in Surfers Paradise reaching over $250. The council has also reported that over 70% of residents who made submissions on the issue expressed concerns about the impact of short-term rentals on their neighbourhoods. As of June 2026, the council has received over 1,200 submissions on the proposed regulation, with a decision expected to be made by the end of the year.

As the council considers the regulation of short-term rentals, residents are being encouraged to continue to have their say. The Gold Coast City Council has established a dedicated webpage for the consultation process, which includes information on the proposed measures and a submission form. Residents can also contact their local councillor or attend one of the council's community engagement sessions to provide feedback. With the Olympics and construction boom on the horizon, the city is at a critical juncture, and the decision on short-term rental regulation will have a lasting impact on the Gold Coast community.