Industry

What is Short Term Accommodation Association Australia (STAAA)?

Updated 2026-05-28

The Short Term Accommodation Association Australia (STAAA) is the principal industry organization for Australia's short-term rental market. It serves as a unified voice for property managers, hosts, online platforms, and other businesses operating within the sector.

STAAA's primary functions are to engage in advocacy with government bodies, establish professional standards and codes of conduct, and foster a positive public image for the industry.

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How it works

STAAA operates by representing its members' interests at local, state, and federal government levels, influencing policy discussions and advocating for sensible, fair regulations. It achieves this through data-driven research, policy submissions, and direct engagement with lawmakers.

The association provides its members with access to educational resources, industry news, legal guidance, and networking events. Furthermore, STAAA promotes a national code of conduct to encourage best practices in guest safety, community relations, and property management, thereby enhancing the industry's professionalism and reputation.

Why it matters

For vacation rental owners and managers in Australia, STAAA provides crucial representation in a complex and evolving regulatory environment. Membership offers a collective voice to address challenges like zoning laws, registration schemes, and taxation.

Belonging to a peak industry body like STAAA can lend credibility to a business and demonstrates a commitment to professional standards. It also ensures operators stay informed about legal changes and industry trends that directly impact their operations and profitability.

Examples

  • A property management company in Melbourne joins STAAA to access resources on new state-wide registration requirements and to network with other industry professionals.
  • STAAA commissions an economic impact study on short-term rentals in regional Queensland to present to state policymakers considering stricter regulations.
  • During a local council debate on limiting rental nights, STAAA submits a formal position paper arguing for a more balanced approach based on data from its members.
  • A new host in Perth uses STAAA's online resources and code of conduct as a guide to set up their property's house rules and safety procedures.

Frequently asked questions

What is the primary purpose of STAAA?+
STAAA's main purpose is to advocate for fair and effective regulation of the short-term rental industry in Australia, promote professional standards through a code of conduct, and support the sustainable growth of the sector.
Who is eligible to join STAAA?+
Membership is generally open to a wide range of participants in the Australian short-term rental industry, including individual hosts, professional property managers, booking platforms, and service providers.
How does STAAA influence government policy?+
STAAA influences policy by engaging directly with government officials, making formal submissions during policy consultations, providing industry data and research, and representing the collective interests of its members in public debate.
Is STAAA different from a local host group?+
Yes. While local host groups often focus on community-level issues and peer support, STAAA operates as a national peak body that addresses broader, industry-wide legislative and regulatory challenges at state and federal levels.
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