We came across this article in the Financial Review yesterday that discusses Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews’ proposal to introduce a statewide levy on short-stay accommodations, particularly targeting platforms like Airbnb.
“Andrews making Airbnb owners a ‘convenient scapegoat’” – Andrews suggests that this levy, possibly as high as 7.5 percent, could free up around 40,000 homes for longer-term rental in Victoria. This proposal comes as an alternative after the premier abandoned a plan for rent caps.
Airbnb Australia supports the concept of a levy but argues that 7.5 percent is too high and could negatively impact tourism and everyday Victorians. They recommend a rate between 3-5 percent, which aligns more with international policies. Additionally, Airbnb is advocating for a uniform statewide levy rather than a patchwork of different regulations.
Critics, including real estate experts and industry figures, argue that Andrews’ assertion that Airbnb hosts are preventing properties from being available for long-term rentals is misguided. They point out that many hosts use Airbnb for personal use, part-time rental, or to help others in need, rather than for tourism exclusively. Some believe that the government’s plans are discouraging property investors, with a notable percentage leaving the market.
It presents an interesting clash between government policy and the sharing economy, specifically Airbnb. Premier Daniel Andrews’ proposal to introduce a significant levy on short-stay accommodations raises valid concerns on both sides of the argument.
On one hand, there’s a desire to address the ongoing issue of housing availability, especially in areas where short-term rentals are prevalent. The idea that such rentals might be taking potential long-term homes off the market is a genuine concern for many. However, the proposed 7.5 percent levy seems disproportionately high, potentially discouraging hosts and affecting tourism.
Airbnb’s argument for a lower, uniform statewide levy and its assertion that many hosts use the platform for personal or charitable reasons rather than purely for profit make sense. It underscores the complexity of this issue. It’s not merely about hosts profiteering from short-term rentals but about the various ways people use these platforms, which can include helping others in need or using their properties part-time.
The debate also highlights a broader issue in government policymaking, where it’s essential to strike a balance between addressing societal concerns and ensuring economic stability. While addressing housing availability is critical, there must be a fair and sustainable way to achieve this without unduly burdening property owners or negatively impacting tourism.
Ultimately, finding a middle ground that accommodates the interests of both property owners and those seeking long-term rentals is crucial. A thoughtful, well-balanced policy that takes into account the nuances of the sharing economy can potentially lead to a more equitable solution for all parties involved.
So you lost Superhost and now you need to work hard to boost your listing in search and optimise for more bookings. Losing Airbnb Superhost status can be a setback for a host’s reputation and visibility on the platform, but there are steps that can be taken to improve listing optimization and visibility.
There can be several impacts on your listing and your overall performance on the platform if you have not yet obtained or lose Superhost status. In particular search visibility and a drop in bookings may be experienced.
There can be several impacts on your listing and your overall performance on the platform if you have not yet obtained or lose Superhost status. In particular search visibility and a drop in bookings may be experienced.
Superhosts are often given more visibility on Airbnb’s platform, which can lead to more bookings and a higher occupancy rate. Losing Superhost status can mean that your listing is less visible to potential guests.
Visibility on Airbnb is essential to a successful listing because it helps attract more guests and increase occupancy rates. Airbnb is a highly competitive platform, with millions of listings worldwide. As a result, hosts need to take steps to ensure that their listings stand out and are visible to potential guests.
There are several ways that visibility impacts the success of an Airbnb listing. First, when a listing is more visible, it is more likely to receive inquiries and bookings. This can lead to higher occupancy rates, which in turn can increase revenue for the host.
Second, visibility can help establish credibility with potential guests. When a listing is highly visible, it signals to guests that it is popular and well-regarded by other travellers. This can help increase the likelihood that a guest will choose a particular listing over others in the same area.
Third, becuause listings with more visibility get more bookings, the occupancy level can impact a listing’s search ranking on Airbnb. Airbnb’s search algorithm takes into account several factors when determining which listings to display in search results, including the quality of the listing, the host’s response rate and time, and the number of bookings and reviews. Listings that have high visibility and are frequently booked are more likely to rank higher in search results.
Superhost status is a sign that you are an experienced and trusted host on Airbnb. Losing this status can make it harder to establish credibility with potential guests. Superhosts are experienced and trusted hosts who have demonstrated exceptional hospitality, with high ratings and a track record of positive reviews from previous guests. As a result, guests are more likely to feel comfortable booking with a Superhost, as they know they will receive a high level of service and a positive experience.
Credibility is also important on Airbnb because it helps guests feel secure and confident in their booking decisions. When a guest books a stay on Airbnb, they are essentially trusting a stranger with their personal safety and well-being. As a result, guests need to feel confident that the host is trustworthy and reliable. Credibility on Airbnb is established through a combination of factors, including the host’s profile, reviews, ratings, and response time.
Having a credible and trustworthy profile can help attract more bookings, increase occupancy rates, and generate positive reviews. Positive reviews, in turn, can help improve search rankings and increase visibility on Airbnb, making it easier for potential guests to find and book a listing.
Superhosts have access to dedicated customer support from Airbnb, which can be helpful in resolving any issues that arise during a guest’s stay. Losing Superhost status may mean that you have less support from Airbnb when dealing with guest issues.
These are the support extras we would miss dearly if we didn’t have Superhost status.
If you lose Superhost status on Airbnb, it’s important to take steps to improve your listing and your overall performance on the platform. This may include improving your communication with guests, updating your listing photos and descriptions, and offering exceptional service to your guests.
Losing your Airbnb Superhost status can be a big blow to your business, but it’s not the end of the world. By taking the five easy steps we’ve outlined, you can work towards getting back on track and improving your rating. Remember to communicate effectively with guests, provide a clean and comfortable space, be responsive to inquiries and reviews, and go above and beyond to make your guests feel welcome. By following these simple guidelines, you can improve your hosting skills and regain your Superhost status in no time. So don’t get discouraged, keep striving for excellence, and your efforts will pay off in the end.
In a future post we will expand on each of the above points but for now if you need help to optimise your listing, strategies around pricing, using Airbnb tools and promotions or setting up automations to improve efficiency then we would love to help!
We recently did an updated photoshoot at Aveley we get more bookings from booking.com but noticed that after the Airbnb Winter release we has a major slow down on bookings, particularly at our lower end properties. We had planned to do a new photoshoot at all our houses and recently wrote about Tips for planning an Airbnb photoshoot – but we noticed that for the following 8 weeks the property was showing up right at the top of Airbnb search – even when we did the search from Brisbane, so we wanted to add this as an extra tip!
If it has been a while since you have updated your photos or your property looks different throughout the reasons consider new photos. Updating photos is a great way to improve your listing’s optimization and visibility on Airbnb. High-quality photos are crucial for attracting guests and showcasing your space in the best possible way.
Whether you’re taking a well-deserved break or you need a place to stay while working in the area, Daylesford is the perfect destination. Book with us and discover Daylesford and its stunning natural scenery, mineral springs, and serene ambiance, this charming town offers a wide range of accommodation options for all tastes and budgets. From cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious villas, you can easily find the perfect place to stay in Daylesford. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best accommodation options in the area.
Daylesford BNB offers a range of accommodation options for those seeking a holiday or a place to stay while working in the area. From cosy cottages to luxurious homes with short and medium term accommodation options, there’s something to suit all budgets and tastes. Whether you’re looking to unwind in a serene natural setting or stay connected while working, you will soon discover Daylesford has everything you need and our team is here to make your accommodation plans easy.
If you’re looking for a cosy and welcoming place to stay in Daylesford, Dawn might be just what you need. Daylesford BnB’s Dawn is a popular Family Cottage option that offers a range of comfortable and well-appointed rooms. Located in the heart of town, this BnB is close to all the area’s main attractions, including the Hepburn Bathhouse and Spa, Lake Daylesford, and the Convent Gallery. With a warm and friendly atmosphere, Daylesford BnB is the perfect place to unwind after a long day of exploring.
Rosella is a stunning four-bedroom short and medium stay home located on one acre of natural Victorian bush and lush gardens, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to escape reality. This pet-friendly home is well-equipped with modern amenities to ensure maximum comfort and convenience during your stay. The beautifully maintained gardens offer a serene environment where you can relax and take in the peaceful surroundings. With easy access to all popular Hepburn and Daylesford amenities, including shops, restaurants, and day spas, Rosella is an ideal accommodation option for families or groups of up to 9 guests. The home is equipped with Wifi, coffee machine, spa, log fire place, Smart TV with streaming services such as Netflix, BBQ and fire pit, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Don’t hesitate to book now and experience the tranquility of Rosella. You’ll be able to enjoy the serenity of the surrounding nature while still being within easy reach of all the area’s attractions.
If you’re coming to the area for for work, you might want to consider staying at one of the town’s long-term accommodation options.
The Daylesford Holiday Park is a great option for those who need a comfortable and affordable place to stay while working in the area. Offering a range of cabins and cottages, this park is located in a peaceful and picturesque setting, just a short drive from the town centre. With a range of amenities including a swimming pool, BBQ area, and laundry facilities, the Daylesford Holiday Park has everything you need for a comfortable and convenient stay.
Alternatively, you might want to check out the apartments at the Daylesford Central Motor Inn. These stylish and modern apartments are ideal for those who need a little more space and privacy while working in Daylesford. Featuring fully equipped kitchens, comfortable living areas, and private outdoor areas, these apartments offer all the comforts of home. With free Wi-Fi and ample parking, the Daylesford Central Motor Inn is a great option for those who need to stay connected while working in the area.
Daylesford BnB understands the importance of home conveniences for short and medium term accommodation, whether you’re working in the area or just taking an extended break. That’s why they offer a range options that cater to all budgets and needs. From budget-friendly rooms to luxurious homes. Daylesford BnB has something for everyone. With friendly and attentive staff, comfortable Daylesford BnB is the perfect place to call when you need a home away from home and you are ready to discover Daylesford and all that it has to offer.
The highly successful Victoria Travel Voucher Schemes has come to an end, much to the disappointment of many Victorians who were looking forward to taking advantage of the program.
The $200 Regional Travel Voucher Scheme and the $400 Melbourne Travel Voucher Scheme were both designed to stimulate the tourism industry by encouraging Victorians to take domestic holidays and visit local attractions. The vouchers were available to eligible residents of Victoria and could be used to offset the cost of travel, accommodation, and tourism activities within the state.
The scheme was a huge success, with many Victorians taking advantage of the vouchers to explore their own backyard and support local businesses during a challenging time for the tourism industry.
While the Travel Voucher Scheme has ended, there may be other similar programs available in the future. The Victorian government is committed to supporting the state’s tourism industry, and there may be other initiatives designed to encourage Victorians to take domestic holidays and support local businesses.
One potential option is the federal government’s Tourism Aviation Network Support (TANS) program, which was announced in the 2021-22 budget. The TANS program provides financial support to airlines to maintain connectivity to key domestic tourism destinations, helping to ensure that Australians can continue to travel and support the tourism industry.
In addition, the federal government has also announced the Tourism Support Package, which includes a range of measures designed to support the industry, including a $50 million Regional Tourism Recovery initiative, which will provide funding for local tourism infrastructure projects, and a $9 million program to support the development of new tourism experiences and products.
Victorians who are looking to travel and support local businesses can also explore other options, such as discounted accommodation and tourism activities, or book directly with local operators to ensure that their money goes directly to the businesses that need it.
One of the best ways to stay up to date with any new travel voucher schemes or initiatives is to keep an eye on government websites and social media channels.
The Victorian government’s tourism website, Visit Victoria, is a great place to start, as it provides a wealth of information on local tourism operators, attractions, and events, as well as news and updates on any new initiatives or programs.
In addition, the Australian government’s tourism website, Tourism Australia, is another valuable resource for those looking to travel within the country. The website provides information on local operators and attractions, as well as travel deals and packages, and news and updates on any new initiatives or programs.
Another option for those looking to travel and support local businesses is to explore community-led initiatives, such as Buy From The Bush or Spend With Them. These initiatives were launched in response to the bushfire crisis and COVID-19 pandemic and aim to connect consumers with local businesses, providing an easy way to support the local economy and help small businesses survive during challenging times.
While the Victorian government’s Travel Voucher Scheme has ended, there are still many ways for Victorians to travel and support local businesses. Whether it’s through discounted accommodation, community-led initiatives, or exploring new programs and initiatives, there are plenty of options available to those looking to explore their own backyard and support the local tourism industry.
Emergencies can happen at any time, and it’s important to be prepared. This is especially true in rural areas like Daylesford and Hepburn, where natural disasters like bushfires and floods can pose a significant risk. This page serves as a collection of important Hepburn Emergency Information for the area, including updates from the Country Fire Authority (CFA), emergency contact details, and information on neighbourhood safer places.
Hepburn Shire updates their Facebook Page with Emergency Management messages and information view their Facebook page here : https://www.facebook.com/hepburncouncil
The Hepburn Shire Facebook page is an essential resource for Hepburn Emergency Information management messages and information in the area. This page provides timely updates on any emergencies, including bushfires, floods, and severe weather events. By following this page, you can stay informed about any emergency situations that may arise and take necessary precautions to ensure the safety of yourself and your loved ones. The page is regularly updated with the latest information and advice, making it an invaluable resource for anyone living in or visiting the Hepburn Shire.
Vic Emergency is an important resource for residents of Daylesford and Hepburn. The website provides up-to-date information on emergency situations, including bushfires, storms, floods, and heatwaves. By checking the website regularly, residents can stay informed and take necessary precautions to keep themselves and their families safe. In addition to emergency information, the website also provides helpful tips on how to prepare for emergencies and what to do in case of an emergency.
Vic Emergency is the official emergency information and warnings website for the state of Victoria, Australia. It provides up-to-date Hepburn Emergency Information on incidents, warnings, and advice related to bushfires, floods, storms, and other emergencies. The website also offers tips on how to prepare for emergencies and what to do in case of an emergency. It is an essential resource for anyone living in or visiting Victoria to stay informed and be prepared for emergency situations.
https://www.emergency.vic.gov.au/respond/
https://www.emergency.vic.gov.au/prepare/#where-do-i-get-information-in-an-emergency
During the summer months, bushfire risk can be high in rural areas like Daylesford and Hepburn. This section provides information on the current fire danger ratings for the area, as well as any associated warnings or restrictions.
https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/home/local-information
The Country Fire Authority (CFA) provides regular updates on fire activity and incidents across Victoria, including the Daylesford and Hepburn area. This section provides a feed of the latest CFA updates, so you can stay informed of any potential risks.
Find out what the fire ratings mean from the CFA so you know what the level means and what you should do.
In addition to updates on current incidents, the CFA also issues warnings and alerts for upcoming weather events or fire danger periods. This section provides a feed of the latest warnings and alerts for the Daylesford and Hepburn area, so you can take any necessary precautions.
Neighbourhood Safer Places are designated locations where people can go during a bushfire emergency if they are unable to leave the area. This section provides information on the location of Neighbourhood Safer Places in the Daylesford and Hepburn area, so you can plan ahead and know where to go in the event of an emergency.
‘A ‘Neighbourhood Safer Place or Bushfire Place of Last Resort’ or NSP-BPLR is a place of last resort when all other bushfire plans have failed.
cfa.vic.gov.au
For the most current list of Neighbourhood Safer Paces visit https://www.cfa.vic.gov.au/plan-prepare/your-local-area-info-and-advice/neighbourhood-safer-places
In the event of an emergency, it’s important to know who to contact for assistance. This section provides a list of emergency contacts for the Daylesford and Hepburn area, including the Victoria Emergency Hotline, local fire brigades, and other emergency services.
| Emergency | Triple Zero (000) |
| VicEmergency Hotline | 1800 226 226 |
| Burn-off notification | 1800 668 511 |
| CFA Headquarters | (03) 9262 8444 |
Starting a business during the COVID-19 pandemic is no easy feat, but that’s exactly what we did. We never planned to start a BNB agency in Daylesford, but when the company that I worked for stopped providing accommodation services, I saw an opportunity. The properties needed a new manager or agency to take care of guests, and I needed a new job. So, I decided to start a BNB agency and sprang into action.
A few years ago, I had the idea to develop an app for accommodation properties to provide guests with a digital guest book. I established the business name and domain, Guest Buddy. As a website developer, it ended up being more efficient and economical for customers to have a guest information area created within their website rather than developing a custom or hybrid app. So Guest Buddy as an app didn’t progress, and I continued to build websites for my clients under my freelance design and marketing business Digital 6s.
When the opportunity to start a BNB agency came about, there was little time to come up with a name. The decision to start the agency was made on 28 June 2021, with the previous management company ceasing operations on 30 June 2021. So, the name Guest Buddy was reused in the meantime. I operated for about 3 or 4 weeks before the longest-running Victorian lockdown was first announced. It was only supposed to be a short “circuit breaker,” but I was living in Victoria since the start of COVID and knew this could be much longer than just a week or two, and it certainly was.
During the lockdown, I used the time to set up a company and pick a name – Majestiv Pty Ltd. It’s an anagram of my son’s name, my partner’s name, and the first letter of my name. I chose it because it’s similar to the word majestic, with just a little twist at the end. While Majestiv the company name we trade as Daylesford BNB with a primary focus on the accommodation, hospitality, and travel sector, daylesfordbnb.com.au is our website promoting all the properties we look after. Some houses, like Eaglemont, and Cara also have their own website. Property owners, landlords, and hosts who are interested in our marketing services should visit Our Property Management Services.
If you have any questions about Majestiv, Guest Buddy, or Vanessa, you are welcome to get in touch anytime. We’re here to help and ensure your stay in Daylesford is a memorable one.
Australia is home to over 3.5 million small businesses that are the backbone of our economy. Whether it’s a butcher, baker, florist, or tradesman, our small businesses keep our country running. GO LOCAL FIRST is all about supporting local small businesses, so getting involved is really easy. And the best bit about supporting small businesses? It doesn’t always cost money.
Below are some stories from the go local first campaign – we love local so much we have even posted the article about Ant and Sam from Discover Daylesford who have some beautiful holiday properties and offer an amazing guest experience too!
