Navigating Short-Term Rental Regulations in Perth (2025): A Guide for Property Owners

Short-term rental regulations in Perth are evolving, and as of 1 January 2025, all short-term rental accommodation (STRA) must be registered under the new state-wide STRA Register. If you're a property owner listing on platforms like Airbnb or Stayz, it's crucial to understand the new rules to remain compliant and avoid fines.

This guide outlines the key legal requirements, taxes, and best practices to help you navigate the regulatory landscape with confidence.

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Legal Requirements for Short-Term Rentals in Perth

Mandatory Registration (Effective 1 January 2025)

• All short-term rental properties in WA must be registered with the STRA Register.
• This applies to both hosted (where you live on-site) and un-hosted (entire property rented out) stays.
• Owners will receive a registration number, which must be displayed in all listings.
• Operating or advertising an unregistered property after 1 January 2025 is illegal.

How to Register:

• Register online via WA Consumer Protection (official government website).
• Pay the $250 registration fee (waived if signed up early in 2024).
• Renew annually for $100 per property.

Planning and Zoning Rules

Hosted Short-Term Rentals (Where You Live On-Site):

• No additional approvals are needed anywhere in WA.

Un-Hosted Short-Term Rentals (Entire Property Rented Out):

• Perth Metro: Allowed for up to 90 nights per year without requiring development approval.
• If renting for more than 90 nights, a development approval must be obtained from the local council.
• Regional WA: Local councils set their own rules, so owners must check directly with their council.

Key Takeaway: If planning to operate a short-term rental in Perth year-round, a development permit is required.

Strata and Lease Restrictions

Apartments & Strata Properties

• Strata by-laws may ban short-term rentals, and if they do, registration will be blocked.
• Owners must check strata rules before listing a property.

If You Are a Tenant

• Short-term rental is prohibited if the lease does not allow subletting.

Safety & Compliance

• Properties must meet basic safety standards, including functioning smoke alarms and RCDs.
• Pools or spas must comply with WA fencing requirements.
• Bookings must not exceed three months per stay, or the guest could be considered a long-term tenant under WA tenancy laws.

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Costs, Taxes, and Fees for Short-Term Rentals in Perth

STRA Registration Fees

• $250 initial registration and $100 annual renewal.

Council Permit Fees (if required for un-hosted rentals over 90 nights/year)

• Fees vary by local council. Owners should check with the City of Perth or their local council.

Income Tax (ATO Rules)

• Short-term rental income must be declared.
• Tax deductions may be available for cleaning, maintenance, and depreciation.
• If annual turnover exceeds $75,000, GST registration may be required.

No Extra State "Bed Tax" in WA

• Unlike Victoria, which has introduced a 7.5% short-stay levy, WA has no additional tax on short-term rentals.

Council Rates

• Some councils may reclassify properties based on short-term rental use, potentially increasing rates.

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Recent and Upcoming Regulatory Changes

New STRA Register (2025)

• Registration is now mandatory for all short-term rental properties.

Planning Reforms (2024-2025)

• Perth metro has introduced a 90-night exemption threshold for un-hosted rentals.
• Hosted STRA remains exempt from planning approval.

Strata & Lease Law Changes

• The new system prevents registration if strata by-laws prohibit short-term rentals.

Government Incentive Program (2023-2025)

• Owners who convert short-term rentals into long-term rentals for 12+ months may receive a $10,000 payment.

Upcoming Enforcement

• Booking platforms will be required to verify registrations.
• Non-compliant properties risk fines and removal from listing platforms.

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How Perth Compares to Other Australian Cities

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Key Differences:

• Perth’s regulations focus on registration and zoning approvals rather than additional taxes or levies.
• Victoria is the only state with a short-stay tax (7.5%).
• Brisbane charges higher council rates for properties used for short-term rental more than 60 nights per year.

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Compliance and Best Practices for Owners

• Register Your Property – Display the registration number on all listings.
• Check Strata By-Laws – Ensure that short-term rentals are permitted in your building.
• Follow Planning Rules – If renting more than 90 nights per year, secure development approval.
• Ensure Safety Compliance – Smoke alarms, pool fencing, and general building safety must meet WA regulations.
• Minimise Impact on Neighbours – Enforce quiet hours and responsible guest behaviour.
• Maintain Proper Insurance – Standard home insurance may not cover short-term rentals.
• Stay Updated – Regulations may change, so owners should regularly check for updates from government sources.

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Key Government Resources and Contacts

WA Consumer Protection (DMIRS)

• Register your property: www.consumerprotection.wa.gov.au
• STRA inquiries: stra@dmirs.wa.gov.au

WA Planning (DPLH)

• Planning rules and zoning: www.planning.wa.gov.au

Your Local Council

• City of Perth: www.perth.wa.gov.au
• Other councils: Check individual websites.

Australian Taxation Office (ATO)

• Rental income tax information: www.ato.gov.au

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Maximise Your Property’s Potential with Professional Management

Keeping up with changing short-term rental regulations can be complex, and ensuring your property remains compliant while achieving the highest possible returns requires expertise.

At MadeComfy, we specialise in professional Airbnb management to help property owners maximise their earnings while ensuring full compliance with WA’s new regulations. From handling guest bookings and pricing strategies to navigating local requirements, our expert team takes care of everything.

Find out how we can help you boost your rental income and stay compliant by learning about our Perth Airbnb management service.

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