MORE THAN A BED EXCLUSIVE REPORT LAUNCH

Business Sydney with Airbnb hosted the exclusive launch of the More Than a Bed report, exploring the role of short-term rental accommodation (STRA) beyond tourism and its growing importance at the intersection of housing, care and community support.

In a national first, Griffith University has investigated the non-leisure use of short-term rental accommodation (STRA) in Australia. The research identifies STRA as a “flexible layer” in the housing market, helping to fill gaps that long-term leases and traditional accommodation cannot meet.

To learn more about the findings and insights discussed, you can download the More Than a Bed report here. 

The report found that it accounts for approximately 30-40% of bookings and can generally be broken into seven distinct categories: 

•    Work

•    Property/Renovation 

•    Natural Hazard 

•    Moving between homes 

•    Domestic and Family Violence 

•    Education 

•    Health and Care 

The event brought together business leaders, industry representatives, and researchers to discuss Griffith University’s latest research into the non-leisure use of short-term rentals and the critical role the sector plays in times of crisis, care and change.

Our thanks to Stuart Ayres, CEO, Urban Development Institute of Australia (UDIA) and Chair of the NSW Tourism Association, for addressing guests and sharing his insights on the importance of the short-term rental sector.

We were delighted to hear from our panel of experts, who explored the findings of the More Than a Bed report and the ways short-term rental accommodation can provide essential support beyond traditional tourism, including during times of crisis and changing community needs.

The panel featured:

• Susan Wheeldon, Country Director – AU, NZ & Oceania, Airbnb
• Professor Basak Guillet, Professor of Revenue Management, Griffith University
• Michelle McAndrews, Communications Director, Convoy of Hope Australia

Our thanks to Sally Loane AM, Chair, Destination NSW, for delivering the vote of thanks and helping to conclude an insightful and thought-provoking afternoon.

We would also like to thank our event partner, Airbnb, for their support in bringing this important discussion to life.