Oppose the Short Stay Levy Bill 2025

This petition of the undersigned citizens of Tasmania draws to the attention of the House that:

The petitioners oppose the Short Stay Levy Bill 2025.

The proposed levy threatens the livelihoods of Tasmanian STRA operators, undermines the visitor economy and risks unintended economic consequences.

While described as a 5% charge, the levy will increase the cost of visiting Tasmania once combined with existing-fees. This will reduce affordability, demand and weaken Tasmania's competitiveness against destinations without levies.

The proposal reflects a misunderstanding of accommodation pricing, which is dynamic and demand-driven, with costs often absorbed by owners.

Tasmanians will be disproportionately affected, including households renting a room in their home to manage rising living costs.

Regional communities will also be impacted, where tourism supports approximately one in six jobs.

STRA is relied upon by contractors delivering major infrastructure projects. The levy will increase accommodation-related construction costs, ultimately borne by taxpayers.

Tasmania remains the only Australian state not to opt in to the Federal Government's Help to Buy Scheme, raising concerns about the government's housing policy.

International booking platforms will benefit by collecting the levy, earning commission on the tax while paying minimal local tax.

The proposal has been developed without meaningful consultation with the national peak body for STRA, Short Term Accommodation Association Australia (STAAA).

Your petitioners, request the House to :

• Oppose the Short Stay Levy Bill 2025

• Refrain from introducing new levies/taxes

• Call on the Government to develop evidence-based, fair, proportionate policy supporting housing, tourism and small-businesses