The Western Australian Government has introduced significant changes to the management of short-term rental accommodations (STRA), aimed at providing clarity and consistency for property owners, strata communities, and local governments. These updates will impact all short-term rental providers, and it’s essential to understand what’s required to stay compliant.
Key Changes in Short-Term Rental Regulations
The new regulations under the Planning and Development (Local Planning Schemes) Regulations 2015 outline specific requirements for all STRA properties, whether hosted or unhosted:
1. Mandatory Registration
By January 1, 2025, all short-term rental properties in WA must be registered on the Short-Term Rental Accommodation Register. Registration is essential for legally advertising and accepting bookings.
- The fee-free registration period has been extended until December 1, 2024.
- Starting December 2, 2024, a $250 application fee will apply.
- Annual renewals will incur a $100 fee.
To register your property, visit the official Short-Term Rental Accommodation Register.
2. Planning Approval Requirements
Planning approval is now a mandatory step for certain short-term rental properties:
- Hosted rentals (where the owner lives onsite): Exempt from planning approval.
- Unhosted rentals (where guests have exclusive use): Require planning approval if rented for more than 90 nights per year in metropolitan areas.
Regional local governments may also adopt similar rules. Contact your local council to confirm specific requirements for your area.
3. Compliance Deadlines
Local governments must amend their planning schemes during 2025 to align with these new regulations, ensuring development approvals can be obtained by January 1, 2026.
Implications for Strata Communities
These changes are particularly relevant for strata communities, where short-term rental properties can impact residential harmony, security, and amenities. Strata companies may need to revise by-laws to address the new requirements or better manage the use of short-term rental properties within their complexes.
As a strata owner or council member, here’s how you can prepare:
- Review your by-laws: Ensure they align with the new regulations and clarify the rules for STRA properties in your complex.
- Stay informed: Keep up to date with local government planning amendments and the registration deadlines.
- Engage with your strata manager: Work with ESM Strata to navigate these changes and implement any necessary updates to your strata management practices.
Why These Changes Matter
The reforms aim to address concerns about the impact of short-term rentals on housing availability and residential communities while supporting the growth of the sector. By creating a consistent framework, the government hopes to balance the interests of property owners, renters, and communities.
How ESM Strata Can Help
At ESM Strata, we are committed to helping strata communities adapt to evolving regulations. Whether you need assistance with by-law reviews, compliance updates, or general advice, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
To learn more about the new short-term rental regulations, visit the Western Australian Government’s STRA RegulationPage or hear from the Strata Community Association (WA).
If you have questions or need support, don’t hesitate to reach out to ESM Strata.
