Gold Coast's Short-Term Rental Rules: What The Data Really Shows

As of June 2026, the Gold Coast City Council has received over 1,200 submissions on the proposed short-term rental regulation, highlighting the community's concern about the issue. The regulation aims to balance the needs of homeowners, renters, and the tourism industry, which is a significant contributor to the local economy.

The Gold Coast's tourism industry has been recovering steadily since the pandemic, with visitor numbers expected to reach pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2026. However, the rise of short-term rentals has put pressure on the city's housing market, with some residents complaining about noise, parking, and other issues. The council's regulation proposal includes measures such as requiring property owners to obtain a license and implementing stricter noise and parking rules.

In areas like Surfers Paradise and Main Beach, short-term rentals are particularly prevalent, with many properties listed on platforms like Airbnb. The Gold Coast Tourism Corporation has reported that the city's tourism industry generates over $1 billion in revenue each year, with short-term rentals playing a significant role in accommodating visitors. However, local residents and businesses, such as those in the Burleigh Heads and Miami neighborhoods, have expressed concerns about the impact of short-term rentals on their communities.

Statistics and Data

According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, the Gold Coast's population has grown by over 10% in the past five years, putting pressure on the city's housing market. The median house price in the Gold Coast has risen to over $820,000, making it difficult for first-home buyers to enter the market. A report by the Queensland University of Technology found that short-term rentals account for around 12% of the Gold Coast's rental market, with the majority of properties located in coastal areas like Broadbeach and Mermaid Beach.

The council's regulation proposal includes a fee structure for property owners, with licenses expected to cost between $200 and $500 per year, depending on the type of property and its location. The revenue generated from these fees will be used to fund compliance and enforcement activities, as well as community programs and initiatives. With the 2032 Olympics just six years away, the Gold Coast is expected to experience significant growth and development, making it essential to get the balance right between supporting the tourism industry and protecting the interests of local residents.

As the council continues to review submissions and refine its regulation proposal, residents and property owners can expect to see changes in the way short-term rentals are managed in the Gold Coast. The council will provide guidance and support to property owners to help them comply with the new regulations, and will also establish a complaints system for residents to report any issues related to short-term rentals. By understanding the data and statistics behind the issue, the Gold Coast City Council can make informed decisions that benefit the community as a whole.