Proposed short-stay accommodation rules could affect operators and residents in Kangaroo Point, with a permit system and complaint-response requirements outlined in a draft local law.
Why The Proposal Is Being Considered
Brisbane’s rental market has faced low vacancy rates and rising prices, with short-stay rentals frequently raised in discussions about housing availability. A taskforce examining short-stay accommodation began work in 2023, and a local law approach was later identified as a key recommendation in 2024.
The proposal is framed as a way to improve oversight of short-stay rentals and reduce issues such as noise and disruption in neighbourhoods.
What The Proposed Permit System Covers
The Proposed Short Stay Accommodation Local Law 2025 would introduce a permit system for homes and apartments used for short stays, defined as stays of less than 90 days at a time.
Hotels, serviced apartments with on-site managers, and home-hosted stays where a resident remains on-site are listed among the exemptions set out in the proposal.
Operating Rules And Complaint Timeframes
Under the draft rules, permit holders would need to provide house rules to guests and display a permit number in advertisements. Public liability insurance would be required for the duration of each booking.
A nominated 24/7 contact person would be required to respond to complaints within 60 minutes and report actions taken within 24 hours. Serious incidents would continue to be handled by police.
Planning Approval And Other Requirements
Some properties may also require development approval under Brisbane City Plan 2014, depending on zoning and any overlays such as flooding. The proposal notes that other approvals, where relevant, would need to be in place before a permit application can proceed.
Penalties And Enforcement
The draft framework sets out a stepped compliance approach, ranging from education and warnings through to fines and, in serious cases, prosecution. Proposed penalties include on-the-spot fines and court-imposed penalties, with the maximum proposed total reaching $141,865.
The proposal also allows for permit revocation following three breaches, and operating without a permit may trigger immediate enforcement action.
Consultation Dates And Commencement
Public consultation is open from 12 December 2025 to 16 February 2026. The proposal states the local law would commence on 1 July 2026, with permits required from that date.
Published 17-Dec-2025
