04 SEPTEMBER 2019
OCN responded to the NSW Government’s draft policy on Short Term Letting Arrangements by identifying the ways in which the policy was likely to be detrimental to the best interests of permanent residents in strata communities. Among the critical flaws OCN noted was the policy would effectively enable any apartment owner to offer their dwelling as a short-term rental for up to 365 days per year, with very little oversight on the part of authorities.
This has numerous implications including for fire safety, safety in the community, use of common property and the right of permanent residents to peaceful enjoyment. In short, it fails to consider the needs and rights of owner occupiers and long-term legitimate tenants.