This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
APARTMENT owners can now be liable for any damage caused by their guests and can be banned from providing short-stay accommodation, under new laws introduced by the Victorian government.
The Owners Corporation Amendment (Short-stay Accommodation) Bill 2016 means apartment owners can now be liable for any damage, noise or loss of amenity caused by their guests.
The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal has also been given new powers to award compensation of up to $2,000 to neighbours, and ban short-stay apartments that are repeatedly used for unruly parties.
At the same time, guests could face fines of up to $1,100.
The law was introduced following a series of controversies surrounding Airbnb guests.
Minister for Consumer Affairs, Gaming and Liquor Regulation Marlene Kairouz said these reforms are designed to reduce the number of isolated incidents of bad behaviour.
“The new laws will encourage short stay apartment owners to take more steps – such as bonds and screening practices – to ensure their apartments are not used for unruly parties.
“These tough new laws will deliver essential protections that apartment residents deserve.
“We’re regulating the short-stay sector to better protect Victorians and crack down on unruly behaviour in short-stay accommodation.” Kairouz said.
Australian Property Journal
