If Tasmania’s government is re-elected in the upcoming state election, tourists and locals who stay in a Tasmanian Airbnb will face a surcharge. Premier Jeremy Rockliff disclosed plans for a 5 percent levy on short-stay rentals such as those advertised on Airbnb and Stayz if the Liberals win the election. The proposed levy is expected to generate $11 million a year and will be paid by consumers – with the funds entirely redirected to assist first home-buyers.
According to Mr. Rockliff, this policy aims to alleviate supply-side pressures and help more young Tasmanians to buy their first home. Housing Minister Nic Street stated that the increasing number of homes on the short-stay market reduced availability and contributed to higher rents. However, hotels, pubs, and other traditional accommodation operators will not be affected by the levy.
Mr. Rockliff argued that the surcharge would mainly be paid by interstate and overseas travelers, as data shows that 83 percent of Tasmanian short-stay users are not local. Meanwhile, Victoria is planning to introduce a 7.5 percent levy on short stays while NSW is considering following suit with its own rental booking surcharge. In addition, the Tasmanian Liberals have promised to ban arbitrary caps on short-stay listings and geographic distortions of the market.
Former speaker Sue Hickey has become an independent candidate for the state of Clark after being disendorsed by the Liberals in 2021. Her defection prompted an early election, as the government failed to resolve a stand-off with two crossbench independents. As the campaign begins, the Liberals have 11 incumbent MPs, Labor has eight, the Greens have two, and there are four independents. This upcoming election will expand the parliament from 25 to 35 seats.