Holiday homeowners demand reversal of Bass Coast Council's short-stay fee increase

In the Bass Coast Shire, which includes popular spots like Phillip Island, the council lifted its short-stay registration fee to $600 for most homes and $900 for those with more than five bedrooms. Owners such as a couple renting their holiday house for roughly $220 per night argue the hike is “extortionate” and may lead to vacant properties, harming the local tourism economy. Council mayor Brett Tessari says the fees help manage waste, anti-social behaviour and other pressures from the influx of visitors.

Meanwhile, a statewide 7.5% levy introduced in 2025 directs its revenue to social housing, prompting accusations of “double-dipping” from some providers. University of Sydney housing specialist Nicole Gurran notes that both providers and guests may bear the cost. Local tourism groups, including the Inverloch Tourism Association led by Glenn Morris, warn the higher fees could reduce available accommodation during peak seasons.