WA Local Governments’ operations will benefit from a standardised registration scheme for short stay accommodation providers while retaining variance in local planning conditions.
 
The Economics and Industry Standing Committee’s report into Short-Term Rentals released today follows an extensive consultation process, drawing from submissions including the WA Local Government Association and individual Local Governments.
 
WALGA President Cr Lynne Craigie welcomed the report, saying the measured approach was in keeping with the Association’s advocacy to ensure flexibility was maintained according to the needs of each area.
 
“A State-wide registration process will greatly assist Local Governments in their work identifying and managing compliance of short-term accommodation premises,” Cr Craigie said.
 
“Managing this ever-evolving new sector requires a whole of government response, but the Committee has recognised it can impact each community quite differently, and has said they are willing to maintain local conditions and requirements.
 
“This approach also aligns with international policy trends in the short-stay accommodation market.”
 
In addition to a State-wide registration scheme, recommendations include a framework review with standardised definitions, shared data from online providers, and a requirement for accommodation providers to cite their registration number in any promotional material.
 
Cr Craigie said WALGA has previously called on the State Government to modernise and review the planning framework in relation to short term rentals.
 
“The current system has not been updated since 2009 and has proved ineffective in addressing the new trends we are seeing in the accommodation market,” Cr Craigie said.
 
“We are pleased that recommendations of the report seek to review the current framework and provide greater guidance to Local Governments about ways to appropriately regulate short-term rentals, and we look forward to working together with the State on these important reforms.”