Gold Coast Short-Term Rental Regulation: What Happens Next and the Key Decisions Ahead

The Gold Coast City Council has announced a review of its short-term rental regulations, sparking debate among residents, property owners, and tourism operators. The review comes as the city experiences a construction boom and prepares for the 2032 Olympics, with venues planned for Coomera and Robina.

The regulation of short-term rentals matters now because it affects not only the tourism industry but also the availability and affordability of housing for locals. With the Olympics on the horizon, the city needs to balance the demand for accommodation with the needs of its residents. The council's review will consider the impact of short-term rentals on housing prices, rental yields, and community character, particularly in areas like Surfers Paradise, Main Beach, and Burleigh Heads.

Local Implications and Stakeholders

In the Gold Coast, organisations like the Gold Coast Tourism Corporation and the Real Estate Institute of Queensland (REIQ) will be closely watching the review. Property owners in areas like Chevron Island and Isle of Capri, who have invested in short-term rental properties, will be affected by any changes to the regulations. The light rail extension, which will connect the city's major hubs, including Griffith University and the Gold Coast University Hospital, will also play a role in shaping the future of short-term rentals in the area.

According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), the number of short-term rental properties on the Gold Coast has increased by 25% in the past year, with the average nightly rate reaching $250. The Queensland Government's Short-Term Rental Accommodation Strategy, released in 2022, aims to provide a framework for the regulation of short-term rentals, but its implementation has been slow. As of June 2026, there were over 12,000 short-term rental properties listed on platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com in the Gold Coast area, with the majority located in the 4217 and 4218 postcodes.

As the council's review progresses, residents and stakeholders can expect a series of community consultations and feedback sessions. The council will also consider the experiences of other cities, like Sydney and Melbourne, which have implemented their own short-term rental regulations. With the Olympics just six years away, the Gold Coast needs to make key decisions about the future of its short-term rental industry, balancing the needs of tourists, residents, and property owners. The outcome of the review will have significant implications for the city's housing market, tourism industry, and community character, making it essential for all stakeholders to engage in the process and have their say.