‘Code of conduct’ the key in state’s response to short-term letting

A code of conduct for hosts and guests along with a limited number of “strikes and you’re out” policy will be central to Queensland’s response to short-term letting, says Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones.

Having chaired the government’s fourth industry reference group round table on short-term letting on Thursday, Ms Jones said the group would present a number of documents to the government in coming months, including a code of conduct.

“Tourism is a cornerstone of Queensland’s economy so it’s important that we strike a balance in our response to growth in the short-term accommodation sector,” she said.

“After a productive discussion with the industry reference group yesterday, what’s clear is the need for a clear set of guidelines to promote respect among hosts and guests here in Queensland.

“Our industry reference group will work on this code of conduct and will submit formal recommendations to the government in coming months.”

Ms Jones said the government would also look to introduce a system of data sharing in the short-term accommodation sector.

“We don’t want to target mums and dads who want to make a bit of extra coin to pay off their mortgage,” she said.

“But it’s important for councils to be able to tell the difference between someone who is renting out their own home and someone who’s running a business.”

Ms Jones said huge growth in the short-term accommodation sector presented Queensland with great opportunities in the tourism industry.

“More visitors than ever before want to come to Queensland and I’m committed to growing our tourism industry over the next three years,” she said.

“We want to make it easier, not harder, for people to come to our great state.

“But it’s also important to preserve our standard of living here in Queensland. That’s why we’re working with stakeholders to develop a system that will keep guests and hosts honest and allow us to capitalise on exciting growth in this sector.

“I also don’t want to re-invent the wheel. We’re closely monitoring the response from other states and I fully intend to borrow some policies that the reference group decides are most effective.”

The industry reference group will draft a list of recommendations which are expected to be presented to the government by the end of the year.

Media contact: 0419 620 447