Brisbane’s proposed short-stay accommodation local law 2025: What airbnb owners need to know
Short-stay accommodation platforms such as Airbnb and Stayz have become increasingly popular across Brisbane in recent years. While they offer strong income potential for property owners and flexibility for travellers, they have also raised concerns around housing supply, neighbourhood disruption and regulation.
To address these issues, Brisbane City Council has proposed a new Short-Stay Accommodation Local Law for 2025. If introduced, the law will change how short-term rentals operate across the city.
Here’s what property owners and investors should know.
Why the New Law Is Being Introduced
The proposed legislation aims to balance several competing priorities:
protecting housing supply for long-term residents
supporting Brisbane’s tourism economy
ensuring neighbourhood amenity and safety
improving compliance and oversight of short-stay operators
Council intends to create a clearer regulatory framework so that short-stay accommodation can operate responsibly within residential communities.
1. Permit System for Short-Stay Rentals
One of the most significant changes is the introduction of a mandatory permit system.
Property owners operating short-stay accommodation would need to apply for a Council permit before listing their property on platforms like Airbnb or Stayz.
This system would create a register of short-stay properties and ensure operators meet specific requirements such as:
compliance with zoning and planning rules
maintaining appropriate insurance
displaying a permit number on advertisements
renewing the permit periodically.
2. Stronger Accountability for Guest Behaviour
The proposal places greater responsibility on property owners to manage their guests.
Operators may be required to:
provide a 24/7 contact person for complaints
establish clear house rules for guests
respond promptly to neighbour concerns.
The aim is to minimise issues such as noise complaints, parties or disturbances in residential areas.
3. Zoning and Development Restrictions
Short-stay accommodation may face additional planning restrictions in low-density residential zones.
In some locations, operators may need to obtain development approval, and in certain circumstances short-stay accommodation may not be permitted at all.
This change is intended to protect traditional residential neighbourhoods while still allowing tourism accommodation in appropriate locations.
4. Enforcement and Penalties
Council is also proposing stronger enforcement mechanisms to ensure compliance.
Potential measures include:
financial penalties for breaches
cancellation of permits
enforcement actions for repeated violations.
These changes aim to ensure that short-stay accommodation is managed responsibly.
5. Exempt Accommodation Types
Not all accommodation will fall under the proposed permit system.
Exemptions may include:
hotels
serviced apartments with onsite management
certain hosted bed-and-breakfast arrangements
emergency or community housing.
When Could the Changes Take Effect?
The proposal is currently undergoing community consultation and review.
If adopted, the permit system could begin operating from 2026, giving property owners time to prepare for the new requirements.
What This Means for Brisbane Property Investors
For property owners currently operating short-stay accommodation—or considering entering the market - the proposed law highlights the importance of understanding compliance and local regulations.
While the new framework may introduce additional administrative requirements, it could also create a more structured and professional short-stay market across Brisbane.
Need Advice on Managing Your Investment Property?
At Octave Realty, we help property owners maximise returns while navigating Brisbane’s evolving property regulations.
If you’re considering short-stay accommodation or want advice on the best strategy for your investment property, feel free to get in touch.
Contact us to discuss your property strategy.
The information contained in this blog is provided for general informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should seek independent advice relevant to their circumstances before making any decisions based on this content.
