Gold Coast Residents Speak Out on Short-Term Rental Regulation

The Gold Coast City Council is considering stricter regulations on short-term rentals, a move that could impact thousands of property owners and renters across the city. One key fact is that the council has already received over 1,000 submissions on the proposed regulations, with many more expected before the consultation period ends on August 15, 2026.

The issue of short-term rental regulation matters now because the Gold Coast is experiencing a construction boom and a surge in tourism, with many investors buying up properties to rent out on platforms like Airbnb. This has led to concerns about the impact on local housing affordability, noise and disruption to residential areas, and the need for clearer rules to govern the industry. The 2032 Olympics, which will feature venues at Coomera and Robina, are also expected to put additional pressure on the city's accommodation market.

In the suburbs of Surfers Paradise and Main Beach, where short-term rentals are particularly prevalent, residents are speaking out about the need for better regulation. The Gold Coast Tourism Corporation and the Surfers Paradise Chamber of Commerce have both expressed support for stricter rules, citing concerns about the impact on local businesses and the reputation of the city. Meanwhile, organisations like the Gold Coast Community Alliance are working to mobilise residents and ensure their voices are heard in the debate. Specific streets like Cavill Avenue and Ferny Avenue are already feeling the effects of the short-term rental boom, with many long-term residents complaining about noise and disruption.

By the Numbers

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 price of $250. This represents a significant increase from just five years ago, when there were fewer than 5,000 listings. The council's own research has found that 70% of residents support stricter regulations on short-term rentals, with 60% citing concerns about noise and disruption as their main reason. The proposed regulations would introduce new rules around licensing, zoning and noise restrictions, and would come into effect on January 1, 2027, if approved.

So what happens next? The Gold Coast City Council will continue to accept submissions on the proposed regulations until August 15, 2026, before holding a series of public hearings and community consultations. Residents can make their voices heard by lodging a submission or attending one of the upcoming community meetings, which will be held at venues like the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre and the Robina Community Centre. For those looking for practical advice, the council has established a dedicated webpage with information on the proposed regulations and how to have your say. As the debate continues, one thing is clear: the voices of affected community members will play a crucial role in shaping the future of short-term rental regulation on the Gold Coast.