Policies & Legal

What is the NSW Property ID (STRA Register)?

Updated 2026-05-28

The NSW Property ID is a unique identifier issued to a short-term rental property upon its registration on the New South Wales Short-term Rental Accommodation (STRA) Register. This register is a government-mandated database designed to ensure all short-term lets within the state adhere to unified safety standards and planning laws.

Owners and managers are legally required to display this Property ID on all advertisements and online listings for their rental. The system aims to provide transparency and accountability within the short-term rental sector.

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How it works

To obtain an NSW Property ID, a host or property manager must access the NSW Planning Portal online. They need to create an account and fill out a digital application form, which requires details about the property, evidence of ownership, and confirmation of compliance with fire safety standards.

After completing a self-assessment checklist and paying the registration fee, the system automatically generates a unique Property ID for the specific dwelling. This ID must then be included in the property's listing information on all booking channels, including OTAs like Airbnb and Vrbo, as well as direct booking websites.

The registration is valid for 12 months and requires annual renewal.

Why it matters

The NSW Property ID system is fundamental for regulatory oversight in the NSW short-term rental market. It enables local councils and state authorities to monitor properties, enforce rules such as day caps in certain areas, and verify that rentals meet mandatory safety requirements.

For hosts, possessing a valid Property ID is a legal prerequisite for operating; non-compliance can lead to substantial fines and the delisting of their property from booking platforms. For guests, the ID signals that the accommodation is registered and adheres to official safety standards.

See the official website for current details.

Examples

  • A property manager overseeing five apartments in a single Sydney building must register each unit individually on the NSW Planning Portal, receiving a separate and unique Property ID for each one.
  • A host in Byron Bay must register their granny flat on the STRA Register and obtain a Property ID before they can legally list it on any booking platform.
  • An owner of a holiday house on the Central Coast receives an automated email reminding them to renew their STRA registration. They must log in, pay the annual fee, and re-confirm compliance to keep their Property ID active.
  • While searching for a weekend rental in Newcastle, a potential guest sees the 'STRA-' followed by a number on the listing, which assures them the property is operating legally and meets government-mandated safety codes.

Frequently asked questions

What is the STRA Register?+
The Short-term Rental Accommodation (STRA) Register is an official online database managed by the NSW Government. It mandates that all properties used for short-term rentals in New South Wales be registered to ensure they comply with state-wide rules and safety standards.
Is the NSW Property ID mandatory for all short-term rentals in the state?+
Yes, all properties operating as short-term rental accommodation in New South Wales must be registered on the STRA Register and display their unique Property ID on any advertisement or listing. This applies to all types of accommodation, from a single room to an entire house.
How do I display my NSW Property ID?+
Online booking platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo have designated fields in the listing editor to enter your registration number. If you have a direct booking site, such as one built using a vacation rental website builder, you must display the Property ID clearly on the property's listing page to comply with regulations.
What are the consequences of not registering my property on the STRA Register?+
Operating a short-term rental in NSW without a valid registration and Property ID is illegal. Booking platforms are obligated to remove non-compliant listings, and hosts can face significant fines from local councils and NSW Fair Trading.
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