Victorian short stay accommodation regulations have been significantly strengthened in recent years. In 2026, a new mandatory registration scheme is expected to take effect, alongside expanded strata by-law powers and increased council enforcement. This guide covers exactly what Victorian property owners must do to remain compliant.
Victorian Short Stay Compliance Checklist 2026
| Requirement | Detail | Penalty for Non-Compliance |
|---|---|---|
| Registration | Register with the Victorian short stay register when open | Fines up to $10,000 |
| Strata approval | Confirm your owners corporation permits short stay | Owners corporation can seek VCAT orders |
| Council rules | Check your council’s short stay policy | Council fines and orders to cease |
| Guest register | Keep guest records for 12 months | Compliance notice |
| Insurance | Maintain short stay-specific landlord insurance | Uninsured liability exposure |
Strata By-Laws and Short Stay in Victoria
Since the Owners Corporations Act amendments, owners corporations can pass special resolutions to ban or restrict short stay accommodation in their buildings. If your property is in a strata title building, you must check the current by-laws before listing. Non-compliance can result in VCAT orders and significant fines.
How to Stay Compliant in 2026
- Confirm your property type (freestanding, strata, company title)
- If strata: obtain a copy of current by-laws from your owners corporation manager
- Check your local council’s short stay policy on their website
- Register with the Victorian short stay register when available
- Maintain a guest register and house rules document
- Update your insurance to a short stay-specific policy
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