From ‘pooch hampers’ to AI pricing: nominations open for 2026 Strive Awards

The Australian short-term rental sector has well and truly outgrown its “side hustle” reputation, with industry leaders now being recognised for innovation, scale and professional excellence as nominations open for the 2026 Strive Short-Term Rental Awards.

According to new data from Airbnb and Oxford Economics, the short-term rental sector now contributes $20.3 billion to the Australian economy and supports 107,000 jobs, representing 7 percent of national tourism GDP. Guests are also spending an average of $320 per day in local businesses, underlining the sector’s growing economic influence.

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The momentum was on full display at the recent 2025 Strive Awards, which celebrated operators and suppliers reshaping the guest experience through technology, personalisation and strong operational standards.

Raising the bar in 2025

The 2025 winners reflected the breadth and maturity of the sector, from highly personalised guest touches to advanced AI-powered tools.

Supercalla Private Properties claimed the Consumer Champion Award for its attention to detail, proving that thoughtful extras still matter. From bespoke proposal packages to its much-talked-about “pooch pamper hampers”, the business demonstrated how personalisation can turn a stay into a memorable experience.

On the operational front, BNB Butler took out the Property Manager Award, recognised for successfully scaling to hundreds of properties while maintaining five-star-level cleanliness, communication and consistency.

Technology and innovation were also front and centre. PriceLabs received the Supplier Award for its AI-driven pricing technology, while Guest Realty won the Marketing Campaign Award for a creative campaign showing homeowners how short-term rentals could help fund their dream lifestyles. The Rising Star Award went to Chris De Closey, who has grown a portfolio from zero to more than 450 properties in just five years.

Looking ahead to 2026

With the bar now firmly set, organisers have opened nominations for the 2026 Strive Short-Term Rental Awards, inviting individuals, businesses and startups to put themselves forward or be recognised by peers.

Nominations close on January 19, 2026, with seven categories available this year:

• Guest Experience Award

• Marketing Award

• Property Manager Award

• Supplier Award

• Sustainability & Community Impact Award

• Rising Star Award

• People’s Choice OTA of the Year Award

STRive TO Thrive returns to Melbourne

The awards will again headline the STRive to Thrive Conference, returning to Melbourne from March 11–12, 2026. The two-day event brings together property owners, managers and investors to explore emerging trends, debate the future of travel and connect with industry leaders, before culminating in the live awards ceremony.

Founder Bart Sobies said the innovation coming out of Australia continues to impress.

“The innovation happening right now in our own backyard is incredible, and Strive is the stage where the best of the best come to play,” Sobies said. “The 2025 winners proved that Australia is leading the world in this space. These awards aren’t just about trophies; they’re about recognising the hard work and passion driving our industry forward.”

To nominate a business or register for the awards, visit the Strive Awards 2026 page online.

2025 Strive Award winners at a glance

• Consumer Champion Award: Supercalla

• Marketing Campaign Award: Guest Realty

• Property Manager Award: BNB Butler

• Supplier Award: PriceLabs

• Rising Star Award: Chris De Closey

Learn more about STRIVE to THRIVE AUS HERE