Airbnb says more than 90 per cent of its hosts have met new reporting requirements

Short-term holiday accommodation providers had until December to supply data under new legislation aimed at better understanding the impact of the sector on the housing market, and Airbnb has revealed what percentage of hosts have complied.

AIRBNB says most of its Tasmanian hosts have complied with new Tasmanian legislated reporting requirements, providing information by last month’s deadline.

Hosts had until the first week of December to provide data for a new compliance process under the Short Stay Accommodation Act 2019. The data is expected to be released soon.

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The intention of the legislation is to provide greater support for local councils in enforcing planning requirements, and allow for better understanding of impacts on housing markets.

Airbnb said more than 90 per cent of its hosts complied with the new rules to ensure they remain on the platform.

Airbnb says more than 90 per cent of its Tasmanian hosts have complied with new reporting requirements, submitting information before the December deadline. Picture: LIONEL BONAVENTURE/AFP

Of those who did not, about two-thirds had recorded two or fewer bookings in the past 12 months, the provider said.

“Importantly, we are confident that the final data will reinforce what we have long said — short-term rentals make a big, critical contribution to the economy and represent a tiny fraction of the housing market,’’ Airbnb head of public policy for Australia Derek Nolan said.

“The information provided will help inform the ongoing conversation around housing affordability, which must also take into account the major roles played by massive population growth, increased student numbers and the urgent need to unlock new housing supply.”

Airbnb said the State Government’s reforms achieved the objectives of supporting tourism and jobs and ensuring compliance.

This month, Liberal MP for Clark and Speaker of the Tasmanian House of Assembly, Sue Hickey, called for tighter regulations on short-stay accommodation.

Ms Hickey said of particular concern was whole homes being rented out, which she said was having a significant impact on the long-term rental market and affordability.

The calls were echoed by Hobart Lord Mayor Anna Reynolds, who said the impact of visitor accommodation in regular houses was hurting renters.

Cr Reynolds said she was eager to meet with Housing Minister Roger Jaensch and Hobart representatives to further discuss the issue.

The State Government said the data is not expected to be released publicly until at least the end of February.