Schoolies pour millions into SEQ ahead of three weeks of parties
More than 60 buildings are already sold out ahead of Schoolies, as 18,000 excited teens prepare to hit the Gold Coast, but in an unusual twist, property managers are being warned over discriminating against them. HERE’S WHY
Millions of dollars have already flooded into SEQ properties with 63 buildings sold out on the Gold Coast alone as 18,000 people descend for three weeks of Schoolies from Saturday.
And in a move that’s set to have wide ranging implications across the period, strata property managers have been warned that Schoolies living in their buildings must not be discriminated against with special rules that apply only to them.
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Only about 12 Gold Coast properties were still showing availability for the first week of parties on the official site Schoolies.com, with prices ranging from as low as $645 per person for a two bedroom in the first week at Enderley Gardens to as high as $1,459 per person for a twin share one bedder at Zenith Oceanfront Apartments.
In places as far north as Airlie Beach, a limited pool of four properties are still available for the first week of fun, shrinking to just two in Byron Bay holiday apartments and three on the Sunshine Coast.
Stratacare Australia Gold Coast branch manager Sarah Pearson said Schoolies was a financial boost for properties owners during periods of high inflation and costs.
But, she warned, a fine balance had to be struck for safety with application of the same rules expected across all residents.
“Apartment buildings hosting Schoolies celebrations must strike a delicate balance, leveraging financial opportunities while safeguarding property and residents.”
She said there were increased risks during the period around dangerous balcony behaviour, securing rooftops and ground rules for all residents.
“Dangerous balcony behaviour is of particular concern, and it is critical to lay down a zero-tolerance policy and to follow through with evictions on people who break the rules.”
She said strata managers also had to tread carefully around late night evictions.
“While enforcing rules is crucial, late-night evictions should be handled with care.”
“Strata communities should also be reminded that they are not allowed to discriminate against Schoolies, and any actions they take or policies they enforce must equally apply to all residents.”
“Collaboration with school leavers and parents is essential to lay down clear ground rules.”
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“Policies outlining building rules and regulations, noise restrictions, guest visiting hours, and the cost of damages should be communicated clearly.”
“A well-defined emergency plan is crucial for unforeseen incidents.”
“Residents and visitors should be educated about emergency procedures, evacuation routes, and readily available contact information.”
Common House Rules to Protect Schoolies, Residents, and Property:
– Secure rooftops to prohibit ‘dangerous stunts’.
– Zero tolerance for misbehaviour on balconies.
– Respect pool rules and restrictions (no access after 9pm).
– No glass bottles allowed in the apartment or pool area (bag checks can be carried out by on-site security).
– Keep noise to a minimum.
– Dangerous behaviour will be dealt with by the police.
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Originally published as Schoolies pour millions into SEQ ahead of three weeks of parties