An Avocet Island Quays resident has labelled short-term accommodation options in his suburb as “out of control” and expressed concerns that the social issue could spread to other areas in the city.
The complaint by local Don Morris is one of many popping up recently, with Voyager Close residents voicing similar concerns after a series of “disorderly” parties took place at a short term rental in their street.
With a rise in online short-term stay platforms such as Airbnb, Stayz or similar, residents in picturesque coastal communities such as Mandurah are feeling the weight of the trend.
Mr Morris said he was aware the debate had been growing within the local government’s boundaries and said it was time to see action.
He said something needed to be done to prevent anti-social behaviour and overcrowding in streets that, in the past, were “peaceful places to live”.
“This isn’t the neighbourhood we first moved into,” he said.
“We don’t know, day by day, who our neighbours are going to be.
“It has a demoralising effect on all of us. It’s changing the area and it’s changing us.”
On April 11, a number of residents in the area turnout to public discussion on the matter.
That meeting was attended by Coastal Ward councillor Tahlia Jones.
Ms Jones has been following the issue in her ward and has aimed to present a community petition pushing for tightened regulations to council during its next sitting.
Mr Morris said the issued faced by Voyager Close residents was a “carbon copy” of what was happening in his street.
“It’s out of control. We have a six bedroom house near our home and I’ve counted 30 people there at once,” he said.
Mr Morris said while it was often argued that people using short term rentals contributed to the local economy, the party goers waltzed in with “full eskies and didn’t leave the house” until they’d packed up.
He made it clear that the issue was bigger than just a couple complains from Avocet Island Quays and Voyager Close residents.
“This could happen to anyone. It’s not a problem that’s peculiar to Wannanup,” he said.
Mr Morris said he was pleased with Ms Jones interest in the matter and thanked her for providing residents a voice at the City of Mandurah.
Have you ever experienced overcrowding and anti-social behaviour from short-term rentals in Mandurah? If you have a story to share, get in touch with our journalist Caitlyn Rintoul via caitlyn.rintoul@fairfaxmedia.com.au.
