Hosting on Airbnb is a fantastic way to earn extra income, but navigating Australia’s regulations can feel overwhelming. From state-specific rules to fire safety standards, compliance is critical to avoid fines, legal issues, or even losing your listing.
This guide simplifies it all, bringing together everything you need to stay compliant. With a special focus on fire safety — a must for every host — we’ll show you how BlueprintBNB makes compliance fast, affordable, and hassle-free with professional fire evacuation diagrams. Let’s get started!
Regulations vary across Australia. Here’s a quick snapshot of what hosts need to know:
State/Territory | Key Compliance Rules |
---|---|
NSW | Register on the Short-Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) Register. 180-night limit for unhosted properties in Greater Sydney. |
VIC | No night limits, but properties must meet Building Code of Australia (BCA) standards. Some councils require permits. |
QLD | Rules vary by council. Some require a Material Change of Use approval for short-term rentals. |
WA | Statewide STRA register mandatory from 1 Jan 2025. All hosts must register. |
SA | Planning approval may be needed for non-residential zones. Fire and safety compliance mandatory. |
TAS | Requires a Planning Permit unless exempt. Register via Business Tasmania. |
ACT | Allowed under residential use, but safety and building standards apply. |
NT | Minimal regulation, but fire safety, insurance, and tax rules still apply. |
🔎 Pro Tip: Check your state’s government website or local council portal for specific local rules and ongoing updates.
Depending on your property type and location, you may need:
Development Approvals: Required for B&Bs, multi-room setups, or properties in certain zones.
Council Registration: Mandatory in high-demand areas like Sydney or Byron Bay.
Fire Safety Certificates: Often required as part of council planning approvals.
🛠️ What to Do: Contact your local council or visit their planning portal. BlueprintBNB can assist with fire safety documentation to streamline your approval process.
Fire safety is non-negotiable under Australian Standard AS 3745-2010. Every Airbnb must have:
Fire Evacuation Diagrams: Clearly marked exit paths, “You Are Here” markers, fire equipment locations, and assembly points.
Smoke Alarms: Interconnected in some states, tested regularly.
Fire Extinguishers and Blankets: Placed in accessible locations.
Guest Emergency Info: Clear instructions included in your guest welcome pack.
At BlueprintBNB, we take the stress out of fire safety:
✅ Custom Evacuation Diagrams: Compliant with AS 3745-2010, delivered as PDFs in 48 hours.
✅ Affordable Pricing: $350 (incl. GST) for all property types.
✅ Nationwide Service: Tailored to your state’s regulations.
✅ Hassle-Free Process: Upload your floor plan — we handle the rest.
“BlueprintBNB saved me from a $3,000 fine. Their fire evacuation diagram was professional and council-approved!” — Sarah, Sydney Host
Your Airbnb must meet essential safety and hygiene standards:
Smoke Detectors: Fully operational and compliant with local laws.
Electrical/Gas Safety: All work must be completed by licensed professionals.
Cleanliness: Provide fresh linens, sanitized surfaces, and a spotless property.
Safe Access: Ensure clear, unobstructed exit paths and secure entry points.
Some councils may inspect STR properties to verify compliance. Stay audit-ready.
Host Guarantee: Covers up to $1M AUD for property damage.
Host Protection Insurance: Covers up to $1M AUD in liability
Valuables (e.g. jewellery, artwork)
Loss of income due to cancellations or damages
Some forms of guest-caused damage
Get specialist STR insurance from:
✅ Compare policies carefully to ensure full protection for your property and business.
Follow this checklist to launch and maintain a compliant listing:
✅ Verify council and state permissions
✅ Register with relevant STRA bodies (e.g., NSW STRA Register)
✅ Install smoke alarms and fire equipment
✅ Order a compliant fire evacuation diagram from BlueprintBNB
✅ Include a guest safety booklet with emergency info
✅ Upload high-quality listing photos and descriptions
✅ Set competitive pricing based on your local market
Your Airbnb income is taxable. Here's what to know:
Declare Earnings: Report all Airbnb income to the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
GST: You must register if your STR income exceeds $75,000 per year.
Capital Gains Tax (CGT): May apply if you sell a property used for hosting.
Cleaning supplies and services
Utilities and internet
Repairs and maintenance
Compliance services like BlueprintBNB diagrams
📘 Consider speaking to a tax advisor to maximise your deductions and stay compliant.
Compliance protects your guests, your property, and your Airbnb business. With BlueprintBNB, you get:
🚀 Fast Turnaround: Fire evacuation diagrams in 48 hours
💰 Fair Pricing: Just $350 incl. GST
🇦🇺 Nationwide Support: State-specific compliance made simple
📩 Get Started Now — Visit BlueprintBNB.com.au to upload your floor plan.
97279706372
Tumbi Umbi
NSW