Amid Australia’s housing crisis, why are taxpayers propping up the price of empty holiday homes?

Abstract

The sheer number of Airbnb and Stayz short-stay rentals is a symptom of a system that’s unfair at its core.

Debate is once again raging about the role vacant homes and short-stay rentals play in pushing up the cost of housing.

Much of the commentary about the issue has missed the point, treating it as an isolated problem. But the sheer number of holiday homes and short-stay rentals across Australia are a symptom of a housing system that’s unfair at its core.

Maiy Azize is spokesperson for Everybody’s Home and deputy director of Anglicare Australia.