Airbnb crackdown backed by federal housing minister
Federal Housing Minister Julie Collins has signalled support for further regulatory “interventions” in the short term rental market, arguing Airbnb is reducing the availability of homes in regional and tourism areas.
Australia has fewer homes per 1000 people than the average of nations in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, she said.
Ms Collins, who said the Greens’ call for rent freezes or caps “don’t work” and could reduce housing supply, was more favourably disposed towards tougher state government rules for Airbnb-type arrangements.
“They are having a significant impact, particularly in regional towns and regional areas where tourism is high,” “We’re looking at the different interventions by states and territories and what’s working.