Short Stay, Big Changes: What You Need to Know About the New Levy

Are You Prepared for the New Short Stay Levy in Victoria?

If you or your clients offer short-term accommodation in Victoria, it’s important to be across the new Short Stay Levy introduced by the State Revenue Office (SRO) of Victoria.

From 1 January 2025, owners, tenants, and booking platforms who accept bookings for short stays may be required to register for the levy, lodge returns, and make payments. This new obligation applies regardless of whether bookings are made through a platform or directly.

Key Points You Should Know:

• Who Must Register?
  Any person or platform accepting direct or indirect bookings for short stay accommodation in Victoria.

• Lodgement Frequency:

  • If your short stay income exceeds $75,000 per year, you’ll need to lodge and pay quarterly.

  • If under $75,000, you’ll lodge and pay annually.

• Free Webinars to Assist You
  The SRO is running free one-hour webinars to help you understand:

  • Which properties are subject to the levy (and which are not)

  • Who is responsible for paying

  • How to calculate and pay the levy

  • How to register and lodge returns

• Roadshow Events Across Victoria
  If you’d prefer an in-person session, the SRO’s State Taxes Education Roadshow will be visiting regional centres throughout May and June, covering all property-related state taxes, including the new short stay levy.

Why It Matters

Understanding these changes ensures compliance and helps avoid penalties. It’s also an opportunity for accountants and property managers to proactively support their clients during this transition.

Need help understanding how this affects your clients? Our team is here to assist. Get in touch to discuss how to manage registration and reporting requirements for the new levy.