Victoria’s Airbnb tax has investors looking north. Is Queensland still a safe haven for short term rentals? Here’s what landlords need to know in 2025.
In 2024, the Victorian Government introduced a 7.5% short-stay accommodation levy, targeting platforms like Airbnb and Stayz. Marketed as a way to ease the housing crisis and fund social housing initiatives, this move made headlines—and waves—across the real estate investment community.
For property owners and short-term rental hosts in Victoria, the implications were immediate:
This wasn't an isolated event. The Victorian tax reflects a growing trend of state-level crackdowns on short-term rentals in urban areas with tight housing supply. But it’s Victoria’s move that’s become a lightning rod—prompting serious questions from landlords elsewhere:
For now, Queensland stands in stark contrast. While Victoria tightens the reins, Queensland remains largely supportive of short-term rentals, with policies determined at the local council level. And that difference has become increasingly important for landlords weighing their options.
While Victoria’s tax has dominated headlines, Queensland has quietly held its position as one of the most investor-friendly markets for short-term rentals in Australia. There’s no statewide Airbnb levy, and regulation is largely decentralised — meaning much depends on the local council.
Unlike Victoria, Queensland hasn’t introduced a one-size-fits-all approach. Instead, short-term rental rules vary by region, giving property owners more flexibility depending on where their listing is based.
Here’s how that looks in practice:
The decentralised approach means Queensland avoids punitive, blanket restrictions, allowing popular tourist areas to flourish while still enabling local governance to manage neighbourhood impact.
Queensland continues to benefit from:
It’s no surprise that many landlords are now choosing to pivot or expand their portfolios in Queensland. For those priced out of southern markets or burnt by sudden policy changes, the Sunshine State offers both a strategic safe haven and growth opportunity.
The ripple effect of Victoria’s Airbnb tax has been swift. But rather than pulling back from the short-term rental market altogether, many investors are simply redirecting their attention north — and Queensland is the clear frontrunner.
Platforms like Airbnb have seen a steady uptick in Queensland-based listings since the Victorian levy was announced. Inner-Brisbane suburbs such as Newstead, West End, and Kangaroo Point, as well as lifestyle destinations like Burleigh Heads and Noosa, are experiencing rising demand not just from guests, but also from investors looking to enter or expand in the market.
Real estate agents in Queensland report a surge in inquiries from southern-state landlords, many of whom are:
On a gross rental yield basis, short-term rentals in Queensland continue to outperform many long-term leases, particularly in coastal and high-tourism areas. When combined with the absence of a statewide tax, the numbers become hard to ignore.
For example:
Landlords are also drawn to Queensland for its more predictable regulatory climate and the ability to:
In short: Queensland offers income, lifestyle, and stability — a rare trio in today’s rental environment.
With Victoria’s 7.5% levy making national headlines, it’s natural for Queensland landlords to ask: Is this coming here next?
At this stage, there’s no indication of an imminent statewide short-term rental tax in Queensland. The current government has taken a hands-off approach, leaving decisions to local councils. And politically, there’s little appetite for a sweeping crackdown — especially in a state where tourism plays such a vital economic role.
Property analysts and legal experts generally agree that:
Even Noosa, one of the most regulated markets in Queensland, hasn’t proposed a nightly cap or levy at the scale of Victoria’s.
That said, it’s smart for landlords to stay informed. Here are a few early warning signs to keep an eye on:
But for now, Queensland remains a comparatively stable and landlord-friendly environment, especially when contrasted with the policy swings seen in southern states.
As Victoria clamps down on short-stay rentals with new levies and restrictions, Queensland stands out as a safe, strategic alternative for landlords looking to protect and grow their income.
With no statewide Airbnb tax, investor-friendly councils, and strong tourism demand, the Sunshine State offers stability in an otherwise shifting national landscape. Whether you already own property or are considering entering the market, Queensland’s decentralised approach gives landlords the freedom to operate — without being blindsided by sweeping policy changes.
Of course, success still depends on understanding local council rules, managing your property professionally, and staying ahead of the curve. But in 2025, the opportunity is clear: Queensland continues to reward short-term rental owners who are informed, proactive, and ready to adapt.
For landlords weighing their next move, the message is simple: If Victoria is closing its doors, Queensland is still rolling out the welcome mat.
Discover how to boost income and simplify property management with expert tips.
Contact Us