Yarra Ranges Council applauds Airbnb for its change in coronavirus policy
It’s the go-to-site for getaways. But that’s the last thing authorities and most locals want in popular tourist locations like the Yarra Valley, with Airbnb issuing a stern warning to would-be hosts.
Outer East
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A move by global short stay accommodation giant Airbnb warning hosts against promoting “self-isolation” packages or using coronavirus to advertise has been welcomed by Yarra Ranges Council.
Officers wrote to the federal and state governments earlier this month asking that short-term stay providers be directed to stop the dangerous promotions encouraging people into the area despite the government restrictions.
Self isolation rules mean there are only four reasons for leaving the house — getting food, medicinal help or care giving, going to work or for education and exercise.
On Airbnb’s website, a post on updating listings from March 20 specifies hosts are advised to promote a space as “covid-free” or “quarantine friendly”.
“In fact, we’re requiring that hosts remove any mention of COVID-19, the coronavirus, or quarantine in their listing title,” the post said.
It also directed against using a shortage of hand sanitiser, toilet paper and other essentials as a way to entice guests, and also told hosts not to encourage guests to ignore travel advisories.
Mayor Richard Higgins said the promotion of accommodation packages from short stay websites posed a risk to the community and the healthcare system, and did not support the direction from state and federal governments to “stay at home”.
“Advertisements promoting unnecessary movement throughout Yarra Ranges have caused high levels of anxiety and anger among our residents who live near popular short term rentals,’’ he said.
“Enabling this kind of activity confuses and undermines government messaging.”
He urged anyone concerned about people or businesses breaking the lockdown rules to phone the Department of Health and Human Services hotline on 1800 675 398.
But Airbnb’s Australia country manager Susan Wheeldon said the company’s message had been consistent and clear — “If you’re not travelling for an essential reason, stay home”.
“That’s especially the case when it comes to regional areas,” Ms Wheeldon said.
“The overwhelming majority of our community is doing the right thing, and we thank them for staying home and doing their part to combat COVID-19.”
She said people had been turning to Airbnb throughout the pandemic in genuine need, including healthcare and relief workers who needed to be closer to work, and tourists who were stranded in Australia.
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Ms Wheeldon said Airbnb was serious about supporting efforts to combat the spread of coronavirus.
“We’re committed to co-operating with police in their investigations into anyone flouting these important rules, in line with our Terms of Service,” she said.
“We won’t hesitate to take action – such as removal from our platform – against anyone who violates the policies we’ve put in place to help ensure the public’s safety.”