ASTRA leads charge to protect Short Term Rentals as NSW Tourism Strategy misses key sector
NSW Government urged to include short term rentals in Tourism Strategy & ASTRA launches campaign to protect industry
The Australia & New Zealand Short-Term Rental Association (ASTRA) is calling on the New South Wales (NSW) Government to recognise the critical role short term rentals play in the state’s tourism economy, as NSW aims to reach a $91 billion visitor spend target by 2035.
ASTRA’s Chairman, Yoav Tourel, welcomed the government’s review of the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy, which proposes an experience-led approach to boost market share and increase regional tourism. However, he expressed concern that short term rentals have been overlooked in the planning, despite their significant role in accommodating tourists and workers.
“Short term rentals offer some of the best quality accommodation across every part of NSW, and ASTRA members are constantly working to improve standards for guests who seek a unique experience, rather than a standard hotel room,” said Mr Tourel.
He stressed that the short term rental industry is perfectly positioned to help deliver essential accessible accommodation, authentic cultural connections, stunning landscapes and memorable experiences that modern travellers demand.
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The NSW Government’s focus on enhancing accommodation quality in regional areas and increasing room availability in Greater Sydney was praised by ASTRA.However, Mr Tourel highlighted the need for short term rentals to be included in the state’s strategic planning, especially in regional areas where accommodation can be limited for choice and inconsistent in quality.
“It is vital that the NSW Government considers the contribution of short term rentals and includes the sector in its strategic planning. This is particularly important in regional areas where accommodation options are often fewer and of varying standards,” he added.
Mr Tourel also urged the government to carefully review the impact of bed night caps, which could negatively affect tourism numbers.
He cited the recent room caps imposed in Byron Bay as an example, warning that such restrictions could limit accommodation options and increase prices for tourists.
The Victorian Government is expected to vote on these changes in mid-October, which could have a direct impact on everyday working Australians.
In a letter to members, Mr Tourel warned that the industry is under serious threat and encouraged action.
“We urgently need amendments to protect our industry, and we need your voice to make that happen,” he said. ASTRA is calling on its members to visit Ban the Bed Tax and send a letter to their local Victorian State MP. The campaign aims to protect the short term rental sector from potentially damaging regulations.
As the NSW Government continues to refine its tourism strategy, ASTRA remains committed to ensuring that short-term rentals are recognised as a vital part of the state’s accommodation offering.
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Mandy has over two decades of experience in accommodation and tourism industry writing, and she is also an accomplished editor and publisher. As co-Director of Multimedia Pty Ltd, a trusted B2B content provider for the accommodation and education sectors in Australia and New Zealand, she oversees high-quality print and digital content across notable publications, including AccomNews, Resort News, and School News, along with the property listing platform AccomProperties. Mandy’s contributions have been recognised with the Female Leader Award at the Best of Tourism 2023 and the ARAMA Life Member Award in 2024.