The new <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/yarraville-green-42-stephen-street-yarraville-vic-3013">Yarraville Green</a> development in Melbourne's inner west is showing that landscaping can be just as influential as architecture, with buyers responding strongly to the garden-first approach adopted from the outset by developer Excelon Projects and the project's design team.

Excelon appointed Six Degrees Architects and landscape architects SBLA to work collaboratively on the development, with a brief to create "a sustainable, design-led building with a focus on community."

That approach has resonated with buyers. According to Next Chapter Director Tom Hirini, who is leading the sales campaign, the landscaped communal garden has become one of the project's defining features, alongside its boutique scale and European-inspired cluster housing concept.

Local downsizers, right-sizers and established families already living in Yarraville and surrounding suburbs have accounted for the majority of purchasers.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297740]

Yarraville Green will comprise 53 homes, including apartments and townhomes, arranged around the shared central garden to maximise connections to the landscaped open space. Parking has been moved underground, allowing the ground plane to be dedicated to greenery, pedestrian movement and communal spaces.

The landscape extends well beyond passive planting. Productive garden beds, a pergola, communal gathering spaces, garden sheds and a pet wash have all been integrated into the masterplan, creating spaces designed to encourage everyday interaction between residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297741]

The interiors continue Excelon's focus on craftsmanship, incorporating bespoke elements by Melbourne artisans including leadlight detailing by Adadaz, hand-turned timber hardware by Auburn Woodturning and blown-glass lighting by Ruth Allen.

Sustainability has also been embedded throughout the project, with Yarraville Green targeting an average 7-star NatHERS energy rating through passive design principles, rooftop solar servicing common areas and rainwater harvesting for landscape irrigation.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=144913 project_image_fid=297735]

Construction continues to progress at Yarraville Green, with structural works well underway and framing works approaching completion under builder Balmain &amp; Co. The project remains on track for completion in mid-2027.

Apartments at Yarraville Green are currently priced from $625,000, while townhomes start from $1.4 million.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=144913]

Joel Robinson

Garden-led design drives buyer demand at Yarraville Green

National diversified developer Fortis has officially launched Crest &amp; Walker, its latest Brisbane apartment development, with construction now underway on the 20-storey Newstead project.

Award-winning builder BINAH has commenced construction on the Bureau^Proberts-designed building, which will deliver a limited collection of 65 two and three-bedroom apartments on Kyabra Street.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373556]

The project marks Fortis' fourth active residential development in Brisbane, following River House, which is nearing completion, alongside projects in New Farm and Hamilton as the national developer continues to expand its South East Queensland pipeline.

Fortis General Manager – Development Queensland Dan Boman said Crest &amp; Walker reflects the developer's long-term commitment to delivering design-led residential projects in Brisbane's established inner-city suburbs.

"We're proud to be strengthening our presence in Brisbane with Crest &amp; Walker, particularly in such a sought-after lifestyle destination as Newstead," Boman said.

"Every Fortis project is shaped by its context, and we approach each one with the respect and care it deserves.

"Our focus is always on creating places that feel connected to their neighbourhood and elevate the everyday experience for residents. Newstead continues to evolve as one of Brisbane's most sought-after urban communities, and Crest &amp; Walker reflects our ambition to contribute meaningfully to that story."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373559]

Positioned between Gasworks Plaza and James Street, <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/crest-walker-newstead-12-kyabra-street-newstead-qld-4006">Crest &amp; Walker</a> has been designed as a boutique residential address offering privacy and generous living spaces within one of Brisbane's most established lifestyle precincts.

The building features a contemporary brick podium softened by integrated landscaping, while the upper levels are characterised by restrained architecture and enduring materiality. Interiors have been designed to maximise natural light, acoustic performance and long-term liveability.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373583]

Residences comprise spacious two and three-bedroom floorplans, with two-bedroom apartments priced from $1.55 million and three-bedroom, half-floor residences from $3.95 million.

Residents will have access to a wellness-focused rooftop featuring a swimming pool, sauna, steam room, landscaped dining spaces and outdoor lounge areas overlooking Newstead and the Brisbane CBD.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=145922 project_image_fid=373571]

Sales are being managed by Slaite Projects, with Fortis expecting strong demand from owner-occupiers seeking a high-quality, design-focused apartment in one of Brisbane's most tightly held inner-city suburbs.

Completion of Crest &amp; Walker is slated for late 2028.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=145922]

Fortis expands Brisbane pipeline with launch of Crest & Walker in Newstead

The enormity of delivering a true skyscraper in Australia's new development market is often overlooked.

It has taken the best part of a decade since plans for Chevron One were first unveiled, but the 41-storey tower is now complete, with residents collecting their keys and moving into what has become one of the Gold Coast's most recognisable new landmarks.

Rising 127 metres above Chevron Island, Chevron One stands almost twice as high as any other building on the island. Its scale places it alongside the trio of towers at Jewel, arguably the last truly significant addition to the central Gold Coast skyline when they were completed around six years ago.

While there are several developments underway around a similar height to Chevron One, they are more concentrated within clusters of the highest towers in the city. The fact Chevron One sits within a developing precinct, looking back at the other high-rise developments in Surfers Paradise and Broadbeach, makes it a different proposition altogether. It will certainly become a reference point on the Gold Coast skyline.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68833]

Developer Bensons Property Group is behind the 41-storey tower, which has 229 apartments, along with an exhaustive list of resident amenity spread across what is the largest development site ever assembled on Chevron Island.

The tower has been the talk of the town for years, says Ray White Projects Gold Coast agent Caitlin Rosenboom, who is selling the remaining apartments.

"People have been watching Chevron One go up for years," Rosenboom says, adding that many prospective buyers have been surprised by the scale of the views once they step inside.

"It's only when they walk through a completed apartment that they truly understand the position of the building," Rosenboom says.

"The views are jaw-dropping. Whether you're looking east over the ocean, across Surfers Paradise, along the river systems or out to the hinterland, every level offers something different but equally impressive."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=360215]

One of Chevron One's defining advantages is its location on the eastern side of Chevron Island on Stanhill Drive, a position which protects the views forever.

"There's only one row of houses between Chevron One and the water, and the height restrictions along the river means views from Chevron One can never be built out,"&nbsp;Rosenboom says.

While new apartment developments continue to emerge across the Gold Coast, Rosenboom says opportunities to secure a completed apartment with this level of outlook are becoming increasingly rare.

"The size of the site is something that would be incredibly difficult to replicate today," she says.

"That's allowed Chevron One to deliver the sort of amenity, open space and resident facilities that very few projects can offer. There are not many completed apartment buildings on the Gold Coast right now that can compete with the combination of scale, quality and amenity."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=6515 project_image_fid=68839]

There's around 2,000 sqm of amenity solely for the use of residents of Chevron One. Club One features a uniquely shaped swimming pool that mirrors the footprint of the building itself, set within a extensively landscaped gardens. There's also an indoor pool and spa, a fully equipped gym with a Pilates room, a yoga garden, a bookable private dining area and lounge that can host up to 30 people, and a 24-hour concierge service.

As for the buyers, Rosenboom is fielding enquiry from everywhere: Sydneysiders and Melburnians looking at the new and off-the-plan market following the changes in the Federal Budget, as well as those looking to relocate, through to South East Queenslanders seeking either a permanent home or a weekender bolthole.

"The Gold Coast lifestyle continues to resonate with people relocating from the southern states, and when they see the views and the quality of what's been delivered at Chevron One, it becomes very easy for them to understand the appeal," Rosenboom says.

A diverse mix of one, two and three-bedroom apartments remain available, with each offering "something a little different", be it the orientation and views, configuration, or level, to suit a wide variety of buyers.

The remaining apartments are ready to inspect in person, by appointment.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=6515]

A decade in the making: Residents to move into Chevron One as construction wraps up

A general rule of thumb in new apartment developments is that the penthouses get the rooftop.

It's a formula that's become commonplace across Australia's apartment market. Residents might have access to a pool, gym or barbecue facilities on a dedicated lower level, but the most desirable outdoor spaces are typically reserved for the highest-priced homes at the top of the building.

<a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sherpa-property-group">Sherpa Property Group</a> has taken the opposite approach.

Rather than dedicating the rooftop to a handful of buyers, the Gold Coast developer has made it the centrepiece of its Flourish collection, creating expansive shared spaces from the best vantage point in the building.

The philosophy has reached its most ambitious expression at <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/flourish-soleira-palm-beach-1150-1160-gold-coast-highway-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Soleira</a> in Palm Beach, where two rooftop precincts connected by a skybridge will deliver one of the most extensive lifestyle offerings seen in a residential apartment project on the Gold Coast.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374053]

"We're seeing a clear move toward developments that offer more than just an apartment," Sherpa Group founder Christie Leet said.

"People want spaces that support how they actually live, whether that's working from home, staying active, or spending time with family and friends.

"That's where amenity becomes critical. It's not just about what's included, but how those spaces are designed to be used every day."

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374052]

The breadth of amenity has already attracted buyers across multiple demographics. Younger first home buyers have been drawn to Soleira's one-bedroom apartments, a product rarely delivered in Palm Beach, while families have responded to practical inclusions such as the shallow children's pool adjoining the main lap pool and the extensive communal recreation areas.

Instead of a single rooftop, Soleira delivers two distinct lifestyle zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=372547]

The southern rooftop has been dedicated to wellness, featuring a gym, yoga and Pilates studio, work-from-home facilities, a wellness centre, spa, and hot and cold plunge pools.

The northern rooftop focuses on recreation and entertaining, incorporating a heated resort-style pool, private dining rooms, pizza ovens, barbecues, a golf simulator, children's recreation areas, and what is expected to be the Gold Coast's first rooftop basketball court, which will also double as a squash court.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=374054]

Beyond the rooftops, Soleira will introduce 1,500 sqm of curated retail beneath the towers, creating one of Palm Beach's first genuinely mixed-use lifestyle precincts where cafés, restaurants and convenience retail become part of residents' everyday lives.

Sherpa has also retained management rights across the development, allowing it to oversee the long-term operation of the building through a 24-hour concierge model. The developer is also exploring additional revenue streams within the precinct aimed at helping offset ongoing body corporate costs for residents.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=150017 project_image_fid=370962]

While Soleira is the largest project Sherpa has delivered, the rooftop-first philosophy has been evolving for several years.

It began with <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/amargo-6-12-sixth-avenue-palm-beach-qld-4221">Flourish Amargo</a>, the first project released under the Flourish brand. Rather than competing at the ultra-luxury end of the market with oversized half-floor and full-floor residences, Sherpa focused on creating lifestyle-driven apartments supported by resort-style shared spaces.

Amargo introduced more than 800 sqm of rooftop amenity, combining wellness facilities, heated pools, entertaining areas, cabanas, pizza ovens and private dining spaces into what was designed as an extension of residents' homes rather than a facility used only occasionally.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=146527 project_image_fid=366550]

That approach continued with Flourish Oasis, where the same amenity-led philosophy was refined into a more boutique development. Strong demand from Sherpa's growing VIP database saw much of the project sold before it reached the broader market, reinforcing buyer appetite for apartment communities centred around shared lifestyle experiences.

Flourish Amargo is slated for completion mid-way-through next year, with Oasis to be delivered by late 2027. Flourish Soleira is expected to complete in 2030.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=150017]

Sherpa takes amenity to the sky as Flourish Soleira captures booming Palm Beach demand

As apartment living continues to evolve across Sydney's growth corridors, the quality and distribution of shared spaces is increasingly shaping how residents experience home. Rather than functioning as add-ons, amenities are being embedded into the daily rhythm of a building, supporting everything from quiet retreat to social interaction, often within a single vertical community.

At <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/new-apartments/aeris-melrose-park-nursery-street-melrose-park-nsw-2114">Aeris</a> in Melrose Park, this approach is resolved through a layered amenity offering that unfolds from ground level through to its upper podium. Developed by <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developers/sekisui-house-australia">Sekisui House Australia</a> in partnership with Hankyu Hanshin Properties, the project introduces 468 apartments across two towers and a mid-rise building, positioned at the highest point of the broader masterplan.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=359199]

The amenity experience begins at street level, where two courtyards sit within a landscaped setting that connects residents to the wider network of parks and green spaces. These green spaces are not isolated pockets but part of a wider pedestrian network that links Aeris to the surrounding <a href="https://www.apartments.com.au/developments/melrose-park-nsw-2114">Melrose Park</a> precinct, including Central Park, future schools, and the Town Centre opening in July 2026. The result is a transition that moves from public to private without abrupt boundaries, allowing residents to pass through shaded, tree-lined environments before reaching the building itself.

Moving upward, the focus shifts to the level five podium, where the primary communal facilities are concentrated. This space brings together a 16-metre swimming pool, outdoor seating areas, and a communal BBQ zone arranged to take advantage of elevated outlooks. Seating is positioned beneath pergolas, creating pockets of shade that extend the usability of the space throughout the day. The pool edge aligns with views toward the wider district, reinforcing the sense of elevation that defines the project’s positioning.

In the adjacent building, this is complemented by quieter, more contemplative spaces, including an outdoor cinema set within the same level. Positioned to operate primarily in the evening, it introduces a different tempo to the shared environment, shifting from daytime activity to after-hours use without requiring separate zones.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360299]

The podium also accommodates an intimate private resident gym. Located on the lower levels, it gives residents convenient access to fitness facilities without leaving the building.

Above, the elevated podium sky deck extends the amenity offering, providing additional open-air spaces with elevated outlooks across the surrounding landscape. While more restrained in program, this upper level reinforces the project’s vertical progression, from ground-level greenery to elevated outlook, allowing residents to move between distinct spatial conditions within a single address.

This distribution of amenities reflects a deliberate response to how residents use space across the day. Sekisui House Australia Sales and Marketing Director Peter Kalaf points to the role these shared areas play in shaping buyer demand. Aeris has been conceived as more than a collection of apartments, with the podium pool, gym and outdoor cinema forming part of a broader lifestyle offering that extends the home beyond each individual residence.

[smartcode_project:default project_id=426 project_image_fid=360300]

What distinguishes Aeris is not the inclusion of these elements individually, but how they are arranged in relation to one another. Active, social, and passive spaces are layered vertically rather than separated, allowing residents to choose between them without leaving the building or moving far from their apartment. This proximity supports both routine use, such as a morning swim or evening workout, and more occasional gatherings, whether around the BBQ area or within the cinema setting.

The amenity design also sits within a broader framework of connectivity across Melrose Park. The Melrose Park Town Centre, anchored by Coles and Dan Murphys, features a mix of retail, dining, health and lifestyle offerings, bringing everyday convenience closer to residents. By the end of the year, more than five hectares of parks and open space, equivalent to around seven football fields of green space on residents' doorstep, will further enhance the precinct, allowing the internal facilities at Aeris to operate as an extension of the wider neighbourhood rather than a substitute for it.

Construction at Aeris continues to gather momentum, with ground floor slabs expected to be completed in late 2026 before the first sections of the buildings begin to rise above ground.

[smartcode_project_cta:default project_id=426]

Elevated amenity anchors daily life at Aeris, Melrose Park

Airbnb

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If you’re considering purchasing a <a href="/developments/qld">rental property</a>, or perhaps you have a spare bedroom or vacation planned and are looking into creative ways to make extra cash – then read on, as we have some great insider information about the world of Airbnb.

Did you know that Airbnb rentals in Brisbane bring in an <a href="https://www.openagent.com.au/blog/how-to-run-a-successful-airbnb">average daily rate of $150</a>? They also retain a substantial <a href="https://www.openagent.com.au/blog/how-to-run-a-successful-airbnb">occupancy rate of 67%</a>, meaning a steady flow of bookings year-round. Across Australia, Airbnb is also proving popular among business travellers, with an <a href="https://www.propertyobserver.com.au/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2019-08-01/motels-hitting-the-wall-as-airbnb-online-booking-prevails/11367452">increase of 59%</a> work travel bookings made by millennials in the past 12 months.

One of the greatest ways to secure regular bookings for your Airbnb is by <a href="/developments/qld">choosing the right property</a>. Three of the key considerations to take into account during your property search are:

<ul>
<li>Location</li>
	<li>Amenity</li>
	<li>Apartment size/configuration</li>
</ul>
In order to help you choose the best rental property, we reached out to Brisbane Airbnb management company <a href="https://breezybnb.com/">Breezybnb</a> to help us identify our top listings in Queensland, based on their industry knowledge.

Here are Breezybnb’s top 5 apartments for Airbnb in Brisbane.

<h2>#1 <a href="/buildings/brisbane-skytower-222-margaret-street-brisbane">BRISBANE SKY TOWER</a>
</h2>

222 Margaret Street, Brisbane QLD

Architect: <a href="/architects/nra-co-lab">NRA Co Lab</a>

Developer: <a href="/developers/amp-capital">AMP Capital</a>, <a href="/developers/billbergia">Billbergia</a>

Builder: <a href="/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a>

<figure><a href="/buildings/brisbane-skytower-222-margaret-street-brisbane"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="334" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/brisbane-skytower-apartments-1.jpg?itok=GEoU6rKV" title="Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied</figcaption></figure>"For Airbnb guests, the excitement of staying in the tallest building in the city adds an extra level of desirability for apartments in Brisbane Skytower. The higher floors are the obvious picks, and even better if you have a room with a view for Riverfire festival! Breezybnb manages some 2-bedroom apartments in the building with 90% occupancy at $153 a night. The 2-bedrooms are usually more popular as the addition of a sofa bed can fit 6 adults which helps the apartments command a higher nightly rate." – Silver Lim, Breezybnb Brisbane Acquisitions

<hr>
<h2>#2 <a href="/buildings/aston-residences-9-edmondstone-street-south-brisbane">ASTON RESIDENCES</a>
</h2>

9 Edmondstone Street, South Brisbane QLD

Architect: Bureau Proberts

Developer: Effinity

<figure><a href="/buildings/aston-residences-9-edmondstone-street-south-brisbane"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="323" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/aston-residences-exterior-1.jpg?itok=cmkbipw2" title="Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied</figcaption></figure>"The Aston Residences have an individuality which makes them a jewel that is hidden below the South Brisbane skyline. The low rise development is an attractive pick for business travellers who might be on an extended stay and prefer to avoid the sometimes chaotic foyers and carparks of larger developments. Proximity to some stellar restaurants &amp; cafes and resort-style amenities makes this a hot pick for the executive traveller." – Silver Lim, Breezybnb Brisbane Acquisitions

<hr>
<h2>#3 <a href="/buildings/lucid-38-hope-street-south-brisbane">LUCID</a>
</h2>

38 Hope Street, South Brisbane QLD 

Architect: <a href="/architects/mirvac-design">Mirvac Design</a>

Developer: <a href="/developers/mirvac">Mirvac</a>

<figure><a href="/buildings/lucid-38-hope-street-south-brisbane" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="280" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/image_41.jpg?itok=6N47qMyh" title="Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied</figcaption></figure>"Located a stone’s throw away from South Brisbane Station, Lucid is sure to be popular with guests looking for convenient accommodation. Brisbane Central is a mere two stops away. A 2-bedroom unit would be in demand by families and groups of friends looking for a medium-sized place to stay. Being in close proximity to the Performing Arts Centre and the Convention Centre means you can increase your nightly rate whenever there are events scheduled. A stunning sky deck on Level 30 with a private dining room, BBQ amenities and an infinity-edge pool allows guests a place to relax and adds the wow factor to your Airbnb photos that everyone is attracted to." – Silver Lim, Breezybnb Brisbane Acquisitions

<hr>
<h2>#4 <a href="/buildings/ivy-eve-22-28-merivale-street-south-brisbane">IVY &amp; EVE</a>
</h2>

22-28 Merivale Street, South Brisbane QLD

Architect: <a href="/architects/ml-architecture">ML Architects</a>

Developer: <a href="/developers/abacus-property-group">Abacus Property Group</a>

Builder: <a href="/builders/hutchinson-builders">Hutchinson Builders</a>

<figure><a href="/buildings/ivy-eve-22-28-merivale-street-south-brisbane"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="322" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-09-03_at_11.34.49_am.png?itok=9kbPfJ0f" title="Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied</figcaption></figure> 

"The Ivy &amp; Eve Apartments boasts a fantastic location, just a street away from South Brisbane Station. You’ll find a variety of hip cafes, restaurants and international cuisines located on neighbouring streets (Fish Lane) so guests are spoiled for choice when it comes to mealtimes. 1 or 2-bedroom apartments are both popular with Brisbane Airbnb guests. With the Queensland Museum and Science Centre located nearby, not to mention the Queensland Performing Arts Centre, plus various theatres and playhouses, guests will enjoy attractions conveniently located in the vicinity of their stay. Fancy a relaxing day in? The building itself offers luxurious amenities such a pool, gym, a BBQ area and even an outdoor cinema. You’ll be able to charge $140/night for a 1-bedroom in this centrally-located development with an expected occupancy of 85%+" – Silver Lim, Breezybnb Brisbane Acquisitions

<hr>
<h2>#5 <a href="/buildings/brisbane-one-1-cordelia-street-south-brisbane">BRISBANE ONE</a>
</h2>

1 Cordelia Street, South Brisbane QLD

Architect: Bureau Proberts

Developer: <a href="/developers/rf-property-australia">R&amp;F Property Australia</a>

<figure><a href="/buildings/brisbane-one-1-cordelia-street-south-brisbane" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="image-article_full_width_580px" height="418" src="https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/screen_shot_2019-09-03_at_11.36.05_am.png?itok=H-fggwOr" title="Image supplied" width="580"></a>

<figcaption>Image supplied</figcaption></figure>"Located near the Brisbane River and South Brisbane Station, the Brisbane One project with its magnificent river views is sure to be a hit with guests looking to explore Brisbane from a convenient home base. A variety of international cuisines, cafes, pubs and restaurants located in the area will ensure that mealtimes are a breeze. The amenities such as a rooftop spa, recreation area and lagoon pool are sure to impress your guests (and make for great photos on your listing), not to mention a spacious private balcony in every apartment. An average of $160/night for a 2-bedroom at 75% occupancy would be easy to achieve in this location." – Silver Lim, Breezybnb Brisbane Acquisitions
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Olivia Round

Breezybnb chooses Urban’s 5 best Brisbane apartments for Airbnb

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The New South Wales Government are set to introduced a regulatory framework around short term rental accomodation (STRA).
The industry was estimated to be worth $31.3 billion nationally in 2016.
New South Wales alone made up around half of that figure. Sydney ranks as one of Airbnb’s top ten cities for most properties on the platform. In June 2018 the <a href="/news/nsw-government-puts-cap-on-sydney-airbnb-rentals-with-regional-councils-able-to-follow">NSW government put a 180-day cap</a> on the number of empty days properties can be rented out by Airbnb in Sydney.
It also gave strata corporations the power to ban Airbnb in their buildings if 75 percent of owners seek the ban.
The government are now set to implement a new regulatory framework at some point this year which includes a mandatory code of conduct, new planning instruments and a possible register of all STRA properties.
Kevin Anderson, minister for better regulation, encouraged anyone with an interest in STRA — whether they be hosts, guests, neighbours, industry associations or booking platforms — to <a href="http://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/" target="_blank">have their say while consultation is open</a> on all elements of the new framework.
“The mandatory Code of Conduct will facilitate oversight of STRA providers, including providing for the resolution of complaints and disputes regarding the conduct of hosts and guests,” Anderson said.
 
<img src="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/c_scale,w_580,q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/po.images/2019/8/14/STRA%20framework.jpg" alt="">
The code will establish a ‘two strikes and you’re out’ policy.
Hosts or guests who commit two serious breaches of the code within two years will be banned for five years.
Platforms and letting agents will not be permitted to offer services to anyone, or any dwelling, that is listed on the exclusion register.
A strike will include any behaviour which unreasonably interferes with a neighbour’s quiet and peaceful enjoyment of their home.
“Under the Code, all participants will be required to act honestly and in good faith and comply with directions and requests from the Commissioner for Fair Trading," Anderson added.
“Hosts’ obligations relate to holding an appropriate level of public liability insurance and providing neighbours and owners corporations with information such as the host’s contact details, and that they are bound by the Code of Conduct during their stay.
"Guests will have to ensure their behaviour does not unreasonably impact on neighbours and will be required to take reasonable care of the property.
“Our proposal includes making the industry responsible for funding, developing and administering the register – with any registration system applying to all STRA properties, including those let through online booking platforms,” Anderson said.
Stayz has welcomed the registration proposal.
Stayz corporate affairs director, Eacham Curry said that while the details will still have to be worked through, the proposed industry-led registration system is an innovative approach to co-regulating the sector.
“By clarifying the boundaries of our sector, a simple register of all holiday rentals has the potential to ensure that local governments, communities and our industry can work together to improve amenity and make more informed decisions about urban planning," Curry said.
"We look forward to working with the NSW Government and other stakeholders on designing a nation leading registration system."
More information on the Code of Conduct for STRA can be found on the Fair Trading website at <a href="https://www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au/" target="_blank">www.fairtrading.nsw.gov.au</a>.
 
 
 
 
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jrobinson-rf4aSBido9

Airbnb short term rental rules in New South Wales get closer

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Today, there are more than <a href="https://www.traveltrends.biz/ttn555-Airbnb+By+The+Numbers+in+Australia+2017">180,000 Airbnb listings</a> available across Australia – some of which earn upwards of $1 million per year by listing their home or even just a spare bedroom. If you're currently in the market for an investment property or you travel frequently and <a href="/developments">own an apartment</a>, Airbnb could be a great option for you to ensure your home remains occupied year-round. The best way to get started in the Airbnb game is to make sure you have a decent set of photos of your apartment, which can be easily achieved by following a few simple steps. There are many photographers that will offer great Airbnb photography services, but if you'd like to give it a go yourself, here are a few surefire tricks that will boost the quality of your listing instantly. 

<h2>1. Use a wide-angle lens</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/jakob-owens-zl2y734oreg-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="426" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/jakob-owens-zl2y734oreg-unsplash.jpg?itok=KrncYa9s" width="580"></a></figure>The first step before you begin photographing your home is to choose a lens which is 35mm or smaller for the widest possible angle. The wider your angle, the more you'll fit in the frame which will create more space and breathing room in your image.

<h2>2. Opt for natural lighting</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/daniil-silantev-nbuilbz_j4a-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="385" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/daniil-silantev-nbuilbz_j4a-unsplash.jpg?itok=LZzshAgj" width="580"></a></figure>An interior photograph that has been taken using harsh pop-flash or utilising the rooms regular tungsten bulbs will often look unnatural and/or create unappealing shadows. Instead, opt for natural light where possible, and use warm lamps to add more fill light to create a less jarring aesthetic.

<h2>3. Photograph at dawn or dusk (also known as "golden hour")</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/tadej-skofic-vwxiakn-lvc-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="382" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/tadej-skofic-vwxiakn-lvc-unsplash.jpg?itok=-anx0Hsk" width="580"></a></figure>Ask any photographer when the best time of day to take photos is, and they will most likely tell you "golden hour". This is the time of day that occurs in the early morning and evening, where the sun is low, and radiates a diffuse golden glow, making everything look luminous. If possible, observe the light patterns in your apartment leading up to the day of your photoshoot, and take test shots to figure out when your home looks it's best. If you are pushed for time and have to photograph in the middle of the day when the sun is at it's highest, position lamps in the areas of shadow, and pull blinds/drapes across to shade areas which are too "hot" or bright.

<h2>4. Position your camera as far into the corner as possible</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/nastuh-abootalebi-jdcjn85xd2k-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="387" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nastuh-abootalebi-jdcjn85xd2k-unsplash.jpg?itok=PgAiv_Vd" width="580"></a></figure>If you've got a nice telephoto lens, you're off to a good start, however, to maximise the space in your photo, cram your camera (or yourself and your camera) into each corner of the room to take your photos. You can then complement these wide shots with detail images of special features such as the collection of books in a bookcase, or board games on a coffee table. 

<h2>5. Shoot from a low angle without distorting perspective</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/dan-gold-4hg3ca3ezww-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/dan-gold-4hg3ca3ezww-unsplash.jpg?itok=Uwf6KWi2" width="580"></a></figure>While a downwards perspective will make your room appear smaller, a very slight upward angle can actually have the reverse effect. Be careful not to get too low as this can distort the perspective, however, a few inches below eye level can create the desired aesthetically perfectly.

<h2>6. Dress the room with homely accessories</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/deborah-diem-pnvpggk4az0-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/deborah-diem-pnvpggk4az0-unsplash.jpg?itok=t7JXLkI_" width="580"></a></figure>The photographs of your home may be beautiful, but chances are so are 500+ other homes in your area. Show your creativity by displaying plush rugs, quirky ornaments, art, a snack platter, bottle of wine, or vase of flowers to make your listing stand out. One thing to bear in mind is that your guests may not be keen to arrive at a treasure trove of clutter and dusty ornaments after a 15-hour flight, so do show your personality but also maintain a sense of minimalism. How can you achieve this? Turn your camera to "live view" and add/remove items to decide which styling looks best. 

<h2>7. Show off any on-site amenities  </h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/nick-karvounis-u6-y8vpac24-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="326" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/nick-karvounis-u6-y8vpac24-unsplash.jpg?itok=qSjiu3wC" width="580"></a></figure>Got a pool in your apartment building? Post a photo of it and you could win a booking over an equally great house that doesn't have a pool. If you offer free bicycle use, paddleboards, breakfast or access to a tennis court, take photos of these too! Photos are often the first thing people look at before reading the description, so this is a great way to make your listing stand out from the rest. 

<h2>8. Utilise symmetry and leading line </h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/hutomo-abrianto-9mpl0zo7_gq-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="870" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/hutomo-abrianto-9mpl0zo7_gq-unsplash.jpg?itok=pXzWEdoW" width="580"></a></figure>According to <a href="http://users.rider.edu/~suler/photopsy/symmetry.htm">photographic psychology</a>, symmetry creates a sense of calmness, relaxation and order. To avoid the photo looking too artificial or boring, subtle differences between the two sides of symmetry can add some points of interest and provide the perfect balance for the eye to travel around the image naturally. Leading lines will draw the viewer's eye into the subject, such as balustrades, pathways, table edges or any other diagonal lines which lead to a pivotal focal point.

<h2>9. Brighten and bump up the contrast in post-production</h2>

<figure><a class="colorbox colorbox-insert-image" href="https://res.cloudinary.com/dz9xllyip/image/fetch/q_auto:good/https://s3-ap-southeast-2.amazonaws.com/www.urban.com.au/s3fs-public/pictures/article-images/alexandra-gorn-w5dsm9n6e3g-unsplash.jpg" rel="gallery-all"><img alt="" class="image-article-full-width-580px" height="869" src="/s3/files/styles/article_full_width_580px/public/pictures/article-images/alexandra-gorn-w5dsm9n6e3g-unsplash.jpg?itok=OjRtKXkK" width="580"></a></figure>Finally, once you've taken all your photos, you may wish to boost the brightness and up the contrast in post-production to give your photos some vibrancy. When editing, ensure you keep all the settings the same across your batch of images for consistency and refrain from adding filters. 
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How to photograph your apartment for Airbnb (9 simple tips)

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The financial benefit of an Airbnb property isn’t always clear cut to investors says Co-founder, investor and Executive Chair of LongView Real Estate, Evan Thornley, who believes that Airbnb may offer an opportunity to leverage higher returns than what can be achieved with a traditional rental.

According to Thornley, about 5 per cent of all the properties in Melbourne have the opportunity to make a better return if used as an Airbnb. However, the most important question investors need to ask themselves is if it makes sense to go into Airbnb or short term furnished.

<blockquote>
“There are a lot more family and group travellers who want to stay in an Airbnb than there is suitable Airbnb’s in Australia. Therefore, when demand is greater than supply the price is driven up. 

I purchased a small block of small art deco apartments in St Kilda, which was prime Airbnb territory. The apartments were, at the time, in traditional rent so we decided to move them over to Airbnb. 

Within a year, I was getting more than 40 percent more cash in the bank each year than I was getting through traditional rent and that’s a lot!

The amount of money you can get per bedroom in a four bedroom house in St Kilda on Airbnb is about twice as much per bedroom for a two bedroom apartment in St Kilda. Therefore, investors have the opportunity to make about four times as much money in the house even though it’s only got twice as many bedrooms.”

- Evan Thornley, Co-founder, investor and Executive Chair of LongView Real Estate
</blockquote>

Most investors and landlords assume that an Airbnb works best if it’s a small apartment located in the city.

Whilst this is true in some cases, unfortunately, a lot of these Airbnb’s are making the same return as those in traditional rent. This is partly due to the oversupply of small apartments located in CBD’s on Airbnb.

LongView have a very particular point of view when it comes to selecting the best properties to be listed on Airbnb, and it’s exactly not what most people think. In the right locations, houses, town houses and even whole small blocks of apartments is where the big opportunities lie with value for the investor.

Thornley says, there is a particular segment of travellers such as family and group travellers and unfortunately, there is very limited places for a large group to stay in. Whole families travelling together, two families travelling together, a group of people coming down for a wedding, a corporate group that are here for a project for three months.

There are very few places you can stay that give you all the benefits of an Airbnb, concludes Thornley.
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urban.com.au

Airbnb a real game changer for investors, says LongView's Evan Thornley

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The ATO are set to allow campervan and motorhome owners to claim new tax deductions when renting out the liveable vehicles.
The move comes after the emergence of <a href="https://www.camplify.com.au/" target="_blank">Camplify, the campervan rental site</a> which has become known as the Airbnb for campervans.
The website suggests a rental per week can fetch from anywhere between $250 and $2,100.
Camplify, Australia's number one caravan hire and RV sharing community, has around 4,000 members in Australia and is expecting many more after the landmark ruling which has been 18 months in the making.
There are some 500,000 motorhomes in Australia, and most only hit the road between four to six weeks of the year, Camplify's website suggests.
The new rules will allow deductions for depreciation, repairs, maintenance, insurance, consumables, cleaning, management fees and storage costs, the Australian Financial Review reported.
Owners will be able to claim 100 percent of the expenses directly related to hiring their vehicles when listed with the platform.
Co-founder and chief executive of Camplify Justin Hales told StartupSmart he initially approached the ATO to “engage with them on how this would work under current tax laws”,.
“It was about providing the right information in terms of what we believed this meant for our customers, being able to add a lot of value to our owners, and being able to position them in a way that works for them in a financial arrangement,” Hales says.
“A lot of that is tax," he said.
Camplify chief executive Justin Hales told the AFR Camplify gives people who already have vans an extra reason to consider listing them," he said.
"A lot of people we have spoken to over the past couple of years say this is a reason why they might want to buy a van. They might not have been convinced purchasing an RV was right for them.
"For those investor types who are looking to do whatever they can to get a good return, it's another great way to get that."
"We wanted to collaborate with the ATO about the sharing economy and our space in it, because we wanted to be able to provide our customers with good information," he said.
"We wanted to be able to be seen as a bit of an industry leader in the field.
"Our business is growing at a rapid rate. Lots and lots of customers are listing their vans. It's one of those perfect sharing economy assets because it costs a lot of money to buy, and has very low personal usage for most people."
The company was founded in 2014 with an initial $30,000 investment. It is now valued between $16 million and $20 million.
The website provided a case study.
The Chief decides to purchase an RV with his wife Pam. They are going to use the RV for 8 weeks of holidays during the year with their 3 kids. The rest of the time the RV will be listed on Camplify’s website for Hire. The Chief hires his RV at $650 per week for 22 weeks of the year on Camplify. Let’s take a look at the tax position for The Chief and Pam...
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<img src="https://www.camplify.com.au/client_images/2056497.png">
<img src="https://www.camplify.com.au/client_images/2056498.png">
<img src="https://www.camplify.com.au/client_images/2056499.png">
 
*Case Study put together by Growthwise for Camplify Owners.
 
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jonathanchancellor-7SQnKwU6yx

Airbnb for campervans gets ATO tax deductions green light

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An 1870s Portarlington guesthouse has been sold for $822,100.
Homebuyers and developers had expressed interest in the 1872 Mulane Cottage with the local paper advising it was bought by a home buyer.
It sits on a 1,009 sqm block at <a href="https://www.realestate.com.au/sold/property-house-vic-portarlington-128502110" target="_blank">64 Stevens Street</a>.
It has been listed by Bellarine Property’s Ange Callan-Harris who noted the potential of the Residential Growth 3 zoning.
There’s no heritage overlay with subdivision a prospect for some of the 40 inquiries. 
There had been 25 inspections over about three weeks.
Its price hopes were put as from $740,000 to $810,000.
Set in cottage gardens behind picket fencing, the weatherboard was built by Joseph Mulane.
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j.ballantyne1990-6AQqhLzZaK

Portarlington Airbnb guesthouse sold

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Hotel developer and operator Paul Fischmann will market rooms in his recently acquired Surry Hills hotel through Airbnb.
He says its because it's a "hell of a lot cheaper than using online travel agents".
Airbnb charges commission rates of about 3%, while online travel agents like Expedia and Booking.com can take up to 20% of a hotel booking.
Fischmann's 8Hotels will develop a new 40-room boutique Surry Hills hotel, after acquiring a 329 square metre site off-market from Colin Rahim and Peter Sukkar, the founders of construction firm Growbuilt.
The new hotel will have a "Lower East Side New York" feel, The Australian Financial Review reported.
The site at 202-210 Elizabeth Street will be developed into a $30 million hotel. It is next to the Triple Ace Bar.
<a href="https://www.realcommercial.com.au/property-land+development-nsw-surry+hills-502478770" target="_blank">The site</a> had a permit for a boarding house with approval for 38 self-contained boarding house rooms including private bathrooms and kitchens and two ground floor retail shops fronting Elizabeth Street.
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Hotel developers turning to Airbnb over more expensive Expedia

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GUEST OBSERVATION
The previously unregulated short-term letting industry in NSW has just seen some big changes and investors are being warned to watch out. Regulations to Airbnb were going to happen eventually, but on Tuesday the wheels were finally set in motion.    The game changer that has occurred and why Airbnb now only makes sense for home owners and not investors.     Airbnb are going back to their grass roots in NSW.   Originally the platform was set up for people who wanted to rent out some spare rooms in their own home as an alternative to backpacker accommodation for travellers, thus allowing home owners to make some spare cash.   The Airbnb platform has since been exploited and has become the short-term accommodation platform for investors to maximise profits.   Without proper regulation and no barriers to entry this has resulted in many complaints from local communities and a need for government and other regulators to step in.   Regulators have stepped in and the regulations are being deemed as "the toughest laws in the world to crack down on bad behaviour” by Better Regulation Minister Matt Kean for good reason.   Many investors are left screaming “what about our returns” but I've been cautioning Airbnb investors for many years on investing in a new to market concept that has always been very unregulated.     If you're going to invest hundreds of thousands into an industry in its infancy, you need to have an appetite for risk and be prepared that it may not last long.   Investors should have assessed their numbers based on long term rentals as well and ensured they were still able to afford their investment, without a supplementary Airbnb income.   We saw so many people jump on the band wagon without really understanding the risks associated with it.   This might only be rolling out for Sydney at the moment, but it is setting a benchmark for other locations to follow. Councils like Byron Bay have been threatening tighter regulation in this sector for a while now and are also heading down this path.    The regulations follow other countries like Japan where in recent weeks only 13,800 properties were left on the platform after an estimated 68,000 properties removed almost overnight when regulatory changes came into play.    The market has seen an oversupply of property in many locations resulting in downward pressure on pricing and Airbnb hosts having to take lower fees to avoid vacancy and bigger group bookings to make up the numbers.    Don’t think that this is exclusive to Airbnb, this will impact all short-term accommodation platforms ‘like Airbnb’ but the likes of stays and <a href="http://bookings.com/">bookings.com</a>will also come under the same scrutiny.   The property market, in Airbnb hotspots will see more properties being taken from the short-term rental market and moved over to long term leases and even some investors pulling the pin altogether as a follow-on effect from the regulation.   Some investors will not want to conform with the legislation and will have to put their property on the market, as many of the properties are set up as rentals only and not in an area that the owner of the property resides.   Some property owners simply can’t adapt and will have only two options, a long-term lease with significantly lower returns, or to sell.   The policy is set to be reviewed in 12 months’ time.   This regulation really only starts to scratch the surface of some of the issues in the short term letting sector. Many property owners are renting out rooms or whole homes without consideration given to the safety of the occupants.   We see many properties that are not compliance with fire regulations, pool safety, building codes, railing heights on balcony’s, and many other safety hazards that put occupants, including families with children at risk. If you rent our a property on a long term lease, or you are a commercial hotel venture you need to be compliant. But this sector of the DIY hotel space has continued to circumvent their obligations to other peoples safety. It wont be long before this too comes into the spotlight, and so it should.
Anna Porter is a property commentator and valuer at <a href="https://suburbanite.com.au/" target="_blank">Suburbanite</a>. 
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Here's what Airbnb's whirlwind changes mean for investors - and it sucks

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There have previously been attempts to restrict Airbnb in Sydney, but owners corporations have failed.
Owners corporations in the past have attempted to block Airbnb letting, the most notable case was in Woollahra.
Alisa Taylor, a partner at Meyer Vandeberg Lawyers, noted the issue.
The landlord was Ms Peta Estens, who paid $580,000 for her one bedroom courtyard apartment in 2015.
Estens regularly let her apartment, due to her frequent travelling interstate and overseas.
"She was selective with the guests she permitted to lease the property and always found the apartment in impeccable condition when she returned," Taylor noted.
There were only two complaints over a 12 month period, with guests misusing the washing machine in the commercial laundry.
Taylor said Ms Estens changed the rules on her listing, limiting the use of the washing machines and also prohibiting pets.
The owners corporation in the small block of five had passed a 'special by-law', having the effect that Airbnb was an illegal use for all units in the complex.
Estens then sought an order from the NCAT to invalidate the rule, on the basis the owners corporation didn't have the power to make it.
She relied on a 2016 NSW Legislative Committee Environmental Planning Report which said that (among other things) the committee regarded short term letting of a residential property as ‘residential use of the same character as longer term letting or traditional tenancy’.
The owners corporation argued that no section Strata Schemes Management Act 2015 (NSW) permitted the use of Airbnb.
The owners corporation said that the common areas of the building were being subjected to a high rate of wear and tear as a result of luggage being continuously moved in and out of Ms Esten’s unit, and also pointed to issues of security and control of short term occupiers including abatement of noise.
Ultimately the NCAT agreed with Ms Estens, declaring an owners corporation cannot pass by-laws banning short-term letting.  
"The NCAT said that it was satisfied that the manner in which the Airbnb arrangement operates ‘is sufficient to constitute a tenancy or lease’," Taylor advised.
"The NCAT based this on the fact that the tenant has exclusive possession of the property, and concluded that the arrangement is properly described as a lease rather than a licence."
 
<a href="mailto:Alisa.Taylor@MVLawyers.com.au" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a>
 
 
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Airbnb court case ends in landlord owner win against owners corporation

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The NSW government will impose a 180-day cap on the number of days empty properties can be rented out by Airbnb in Sydney.
It will also give strata corporations the power to ban Airbnb in their buildings if 75 percent of owners seek the ban. 
Short-term holiday letting is currently unregulated in NSW. 
Sydney ranks as one of Airbnb’s top ten cities for most properties on the platform.
The new laws come with no caps across the rest of the state, but councils outside of greater Sydney will have the power to impose their own caps, though no lower than 180 days per year. Byron Bay could move first as its locals have been affected by increased rent as its short-term holiday rental market booms. It has been calculated that in Byron shire visitors outnumber locals by a ratio of 70 to one.
Better Regulation Minister Matt Kean was forced to go back and consult with the government's backbench after MPs revolted over the initial cabinet-approved policy, which proposed only the 180-day cap but gave no power to the individual strata committees.
Hosts or guests who commit two serious breaches of the code within two years could be by Airbnb from using Airbnb and other similar platforms for five years, and placed on an exclusion register.
Kean described the reforms as the "toughest laws in world to crack down on bad behaviour" in the short-term letting industry.
"We've got the balance right between protecting people's property rights, between recognising owner's corporations have a role to play in the governance of strata schemes, and ensuring people who want to use these platforms like Airbnb are able to do so," Mr Kean said.
Airbnb’s Global Head of Policy Chris Lehane championed the reforms as a potential "world model" for the industry, describing them as "fair and balanced". Lehane said Airbnb was comfortable with sharing its data with government agencies.
International cities like Berlin and Barcelona have found regulating these platforms is not always easy with enforcing restrictions against individual hosts cumbersomely costly.
<div>
The home sharing platform Airbnb came out in support of a limit on the number of days a investment property can be rented in NSW strata, as it sought to avoid a tougher regulatory crackdown by the NSW government.
In a submission to the NSW government, Airbnb said there were more than 45,000 Airbnb listings in the state with average host earning around $5,300 a year.
The NSW government's options paper, which was released last July, considered a range of options balancing protecting neighbours and allowing people to profit from providing short-term accommodation.
</div>
<div>
<a href="https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/committees/inquiries/Pages/inquiry-submission-details.aspx?pk=%2053960" target="_blank">Airbnb's prior submission</a> has called for a statewide planning framework which clarifies how individuals are allowed to rent out the homes.
"Airbnb supports a clear, statewide approach that supports our host community sharing their own primary place of residence without the need for approvals, registrations, or caps, and for non-­primary places of residence, an approach that is streamlined with clear information about the safety and planning standards to adhere to," it said in the submission.
<div>
London introduced a 90-day limit a calendar year on Airbnb rentals. 
<div title="Page 13">
In June 2015, Philadelphia became the largest city in the U.S. to pass legislation specifically enabling people to share their homes for up to half a year.
<div title="Page 12">
The city of Hamburg acted to clarify that rules restricting tourist accommodation in residential areas do not apply to primary residences.
The Hamburg housing law gives residents the right to use all of their home to host guests for up to 50% of the year. Alternatively, they can use 50% of their home to host guests all year round. 
</div>
A recent City of Sydney Council survey of 1000 residents showed more than 40 per cent of Sydney inner-city residents oppose short term rentals on Airbnb or Stayz as a full-time investment and believe strata bodies should be able to ban short-term rentals.
</div>
</div>
<div>
Airbnb also recommends the NSW government set up a "three-strikes-and-you're-out" framework to manage complaints.
Airbnb opposed giving strata bodies the power to prohibit short-term renting. 
<div title="Page 3">
New South Wales’ host community has welcomed nearly 420,000 Airbnb guests during a recent twelve months which represented a year-over-year growth rate of 167 percent.
In an Economic Impact Study that Airbnb conducted in Sydney, Airbnbn found that the majority of hosts (85 percent) rent their primary residences occasionally and earn a modest but significant amount of extra income that they use to help make ends meet.
In Australia, the average host earns $7,100 per year and hosts approximately 51 nights per year.
Martin North at Digital Finance Analytics suggests a significant share of Airbnb Sydney hosts are using the platform to engage in economic activity that existed long before Airbnb did – that is, dwellings are used as serviced apartments, B&amp;Bs or holiday rentals.
"This is commercial activity, not sharing.
"These properties aren’t just “excess” unused housing space and there’s no “sharing attitude” involved," he blogged today.
Mapping the Sydney listings shows these traditional short-term lets were only about a quarter of listings, but they were overwhelmingly concentrated in suburbs with very tight rental markets.
LOCATION OF TRADITIONAL SHORT-TERM LETTING
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/221663/original/file-20180605-175451-1eumaun.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
LOCATION OF HOUSE SHARING
<img src="https://images.theconversation.com/files/221664/original/file-20180605-175438-10z7exq.jpg?ixlib=rb-1.1.0&amp;q=45&amp;auto=format&amp;w=754&amp;fit=clip" alt="">
"That’s a lot of properties in popular neighbourhoods that might otherwise be long-term rentals," North suggested.
 
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New townhouses

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