Council’s 2022-23 Budget proposed the introduction of a $400 fee for short-term accommodation providers.
This proposal was similar to fees introduced by other municipalities to address the inequity between registered visitor accommodation providers e.g. motels and hotels, which pay a commercial rate and must meet strict registration requirements, and those also providing visitor accommodation through newer platforms such as Airbnb, which do not.
In order to implement the new fee, Council has proposed a new local law specific to short stay accommodation. This local law would also introduce a code of conduct for property owners places responsibilities on them for anti-social behaviour.
Should the new fee be introduced, revenue raised would be invested in Warrnambool's visitor economy.
At its meeting on December 5, 2022, Council voted to consult with the community about this proposed local law and the code of conduct governing short stay accommodation providers.
A report on the feedback from the community about the proposed local law will be presented at the meeting of Council on February 6, 2023.
You can read the Draft Short Stay Accommodation Local Law here.
You can read the Draft Short Stay Accommodation Code of Conduct here.
To have your say on the proposed local law and code of conduct please complete the online survey below.'
If you prefer, you can also write to Council.
Submissions can be sent to:
Short Stay Accommodation Local Law
Warrnambool City Council
25 Liebig Street
Warrnambool 3280
Submissions close on Friday, January 13, 2023.