Residential property owners in Randwick City seeking to rent out their home for short term bookings through platforms such as Airbnb and Stayz, must now register their property as well as comply with fire and safety requirements and a code of conduct.

The new requirements are part of a state-wide regulatory framework for short-term rental accommodation (STRA) that commenced on 1 November 2021.

The new framework permits homeowners to rent out their home for 365 days per year when the host is present and for 180 days a year if the host is not present.

Property owners must comply with minimum fire safety standards, agree to a code of conduct which is enforceable by NSW Fair Trading and register their property on the NSW Planning Portal to help track day limits.

Any dwelling in the Randwick LGA can be used for STRA if it has been approved for residential accommodation and if the operation can comply with the new exempt development pathway and fire safety standards.

Examples of typical residential accommodation dwelling types that could be used for STRA include a house (free-standing, attached or semi-detached), a dual occupancy, multi-dwelling housing such as a townhouse, a flat or apartment, a secondary dwelling such as a granny flat or housing above shops.

The policy does not permit STRA in boarding houses, seniors housing, hostels, group homes, refuge or crisis accommodation or within tourist and visitor accommodation such as backpackers, hotels and serviced apartments.

How to register your property

A new State government run STRA register has been developed to assist in ensuring compliance with the new rules including fire safety standards. The register will also capture the number of days a property is used for STRA to enable monitoring of compliance with day limits and the Code of Conduct.

Registration for hosts to register a STRA property is available through the NSW Planning Portal. Hosts, guests and letting agents can access help with queries, including how to register, by contacting Service NSW on 1300 305 695.

Further information, queries and complaints

For further information on the new STRA regulatory framework. Visit the NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment’s website.  More information is also available on Randwick City Council’s website.

Hosts, guests and letting agents can access help with queries, including how to register their STRA property, by contacting Service NSW on 1300 305 695.

Concerns or complaints relating to compliance with the Code of Conduct should be referred to Service NSW on 1300 305 695 or NSW Fair Trading on 13 32 20.

Randwick City Council can be contacted with issues or complaints relating to fire safety and planning approvals. Call 9093 6000 or email council@randwick.nsw.gov.au.

Any concerns about anti-social behaviour or disturbances may be reported to your local NSW Police station.