Sunshine Coast’s approach to short-term rental regulation compared to other Queensland councils

The Sunshine Coast Council recently updated its policy on short-term rental accommodation, a move affecting homeowners, renters and the local tourism sector. The revised rules introduce stricter registration requirements and caps on the number of days properties can be rented out each year. These changes come as councils across Queensland seek to manage the competing demands of housing affordability and tourism growth.

After a surge in short-term rentals during the late 2010s and early 2020s, concerns emerged about reduced long-term rental stock and community disruption. Sunshine Coast's decision aligns with a wave of policy adjustments, including in Brisbane and the Gold Coast, where local governments have tightened regulations to address similar issues. The Sunshine Coast's approach stands out for its emphasis on preserving neighbourhood amenity and helping renters find affordable homes.

What this means for Sunshine Coast residents

Residents looking to rent their homes on platforms such as Airbnb must now register with the council and comply with a limit of 90 days per calendar year for short-term leases in residential zones. This restriction will be particularly relevant in suburbs like Mooloolaba and Noosa, where tourism demand had led to a high concentration of rental listings. Local homeowners may face reduced income potential from rental properties but gain from improved community stability.

Conversely, prospective long-term tenants may find a modest increase in availability and potentially more reasonable rents, as fewer homes are diverted to short-term letting. This adjustment also aims to reduce noise complaints and parking pressures reported in popular precincts such as Caloundra. Local tourism operators expect some impact but anticipate that clearer rules will sustain a balanced visitor economy without undermining residential quality of life.

Data on regulation impacts and next steps

Queensland government data indicates that as of 2025, the Sunshine Coast had over 1,200 registered short-term rental listings, representing roughly 5 per cent of all dwellings in key coastal suburbs. The council's policy, effective from August 2026, is projected to reduce that number by 20 to 30 per cent over the next two years. Budget papers reveal the council has allocated $450,000 for compliance monitoring and community education about the new rules.

Policy analysts say the Sunshine Coast’s limits fall within the mid-range compared to Brisbane’s 90-day cap and the Gold Coast’s 120-day cap, reflecting a tailored approach balancing community concerns and tourism interests. The new rules will be reviewed after 18 months, with public feedback invited by the council. Residents are encouraged to submit comments through official channels before the end of the 2027 calendar year.

Sunshine Coast Council's website offers guidelines and registration details for homeowners wishing to list short-term rentals legally. Compliance officers have begun inspections in popular areas and will escalate enforcement where unregistered or excessive short-term letting is identified. The policy aims to foster a housing market that supports both local residents and visitors.