Hands Off Our Future Campaign urges NSW Government to scrap tax on ‘mum & dad’ investors
ASTRA calls for caution! The short-term rental association urges policymakers to reconsider the tax
The “Hands Off Our Future” campaign, representing the Australian Short-Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) sector, is at the NSW State Parliament today, to call on the NSW Government to scrap the tax on ‘mum and dad’ investors.
The campaign calls for the removal of the proposed STRA levy and the removal of any caps on the number of stays, stressing the severe impacts this would have on many ordinary Australian families.
The short-term rental industry in Australia includes around 180,000 properties with 42,000 in NSW largely managed by everyday Australians. Many of these owners are ‘mum and dad’ investors who rely on rental income for financial stability. The Australian Short-Term Rental Accommodation (ASTRA) association represents these property owners and highlights their crucial role in the economy.
Mary and Alex Paton, long-time hosts from Huskisson, are prime examples of the typical short-term rental owners being affected.
For the Patons, their “Hidden Gem Cottage” is more than just a rental property; it’s a lifeline that helps cover essential expenses, from medical bills to maintenance costs, while contributing significantly to the local economy.
“Short-term rentals are our lifeline,” says Mary Paton. “A tax would make it difficult for us to continue providing affordable accommodation and maintaining our financial stability.”
“Hosting is not just a source of income, it is a way for us to remain active, connected, and contributing members of our community.”
Beyond holiday stays, these accommodations often serve critical roles in times of disaster, providing shelter for families displaced by floods or fires, survivors of family violence, and essential workers needing temporary housing. The proposed tax threatens to undermine this vital support network.
The proposed tax would hurt families like the Paton’s without solving the housing crisis.
Evidence shows that short-term rentals make up less than 1 percent of Australia’s housing stock and do not significantly affect housing availability or affordability. The profits from these rentals stay within the community, benefiting local economies, especially in regional areas where they support local businesses and jobs.
“The proposed tax unfairly targets mum and dad owners, ignoring the significant economic benefits they provide,” said Mitchell Price, ASTRA CEO.
“We call for caution and urge policymakers to reconsider this tax and work with ASTRA to develop better regulations that support Australian families.”
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