Short-stay rental on the Gold Coast is legal.

But there are rules. And they vary depending on your building, your suburb, and your council zone.

Queensland State Law

Queensland does not have a blanket ban on short-term rental.

Under the Body Corporate and Community Management Act 1997, bodies corporate cannot pass by-laws that completely prohibit short-term letting.

However, they can impose conditions — minimum stay requirements, guest registration, noise rules, and more.

Always check your specific by-laws. Do not assume.

Gold Coast City Council

Gold Coast City Council requires short-stay accommodation to comply with relevant planning scheme provisions.

Most standard residential apartments and houses are permissible for short-stay use.

Check with council or your property manager before listing if you are unsure.

Licensing Requirements

Anyone operating as a short-stay property manager in Queensland must hold a current real estate licence under the Property Occupations Act 2014.

If your current manager is unlicensed, your legal protections as an owner are significantly reduced.

Insurance

Standard landlord insurance policies do not cover short-term rental.

You need a policy that specifically covers short-stay letting.

Airbnb’s AirCover provides some protection but is not a substitute for dedicated short-stay insurance.

Safety Requirements

Queensland requires all short-stay properties to meet minimum safety standards:

•working smoke alarms on every level

•combined smoke and CO alarms recommended

•pool fencing compliant with current standards if applicable

•RCD safety switches installed

A professional manager should conduct a compliance check before your property goes live.

Want Help Navigating Compliance for Your Gold Coast Property?

0413 522 111

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