Mixed Reactions to Proposed Short-Stay Accommodation Register in SA

A proposed register for short-stay accommodation providers in South Australia has elicited mixed reactions from those in the industry. The plan, which aims to better understand the sector's impact on housing and rental affordability, has been met with both support and concern.

Jenny Bickley, who runs a dual-abode property in Mount Gambier, makes around $45,000 in profit each year from guests hiring her property. "The Airbnb model is way better than renting," she said. Ms Bickley believes a register could help eliminate "cowboys" operating unlawfully, but is concerned about potential security risks and extra fees.

The Short Term Accommodation Association Australia (STAAA) has backed a statewide register, but wants a consistent registration system and is wary of "unnecessary duplication." "We need one state, one register and one consistent registration system," executive director Keiran Craig-Jones said.

Fourth-generation farmer David Galpin, who entered the short-stay market last year with a luxury escape in Penola, welcomes the register. He believes it could inform his family's future business moves and even lead to more short-stay rentals. "If we had data in front of us to say more beds were needed, we could work towards that," he said.

However, Ms Bickley is concerned about publicly listing her property's address, citing "severe security risks." Mr Galpin is less concerned, given his farm's rural location.

National Shelter chief executive Jackson Hills said understanding the actual levels of short-stay accommodation would better inform decisions. "There are local governments focusing on their local economies and that's exactly where the conversation should be," he said.

Public consultation for South Australia's registry closes on October 30 at 5pm.