New NSW rental regulations

A STATE-WIDE public register of properties providing short-term rental accommodation is among proposals being considered by the NSW Government as part of regulations around the rise of providers such as Airbnb.

Officials are seeking community feedback on a new regulatory framework governing the sector, including a mandatory Code of Conduct and new planning instruments to control the sector.

NSW Minister for Better Regulation, Kevin Anderson, said the Code of Conduct would facilitate oversight, including provisions for the resolution of complaints regarding the conduct of hosts and guests.

“The proposed Code will allow for disciplinary action to be undertaken - including the issuing of warning notices and directions, recording a ‘strike’ against a host or guest - and the creation of an exclusion register to deal with serial offenders,” he said.

Obligations of hosts under the arrangements would include a requirement for public liability insurance, and providing neighbours and owners corporations with contact details.

Anderson said the proposals would make the industry responsible for funding, developing and administering the proposed register, which would cover all short-term rental accommodation properties including those let through online booking platforms.

Accommodation Association of Australia CEO Dean Long welcomed the release of the draft regulations, saying unregulated accommodation was one of the greatest challenges currently being faced by the sector.

“The proposed regulations start the process of creating a level playing field for our members,” Long said.

Feedback can be submitted until 11 Sep at fairtrading.nsw.gov.au.