WA news LIVE: Airbnb owners implored to convert homes to Perth rentals
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WA Airbnb owners implored to convert homes to rentals
A $10,000 cash incentive for homeowners to convert their Airbnb's into long-term rentals has been extended for a second time.
It's estimated there are around 13,000 Airbnb properties currently operating in WA, however, just 457 have taken up the offer from the state government, first pitched nearly two years ago.
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A complimentary scheme which offers up to $5000 for homeowners to convert their vacant property into a rental has also led to 249 properties being converted to try and address Perth's rental shortage.
Owners can charge up to $850 a week rent in Perth.
This morning, the state government announced both schemes, which were due to end on Monday, would be extended until the end of the year, or until the funds allocated were exhausted.
Treasurer Rita Saffioti said the incentives had delivered a big boost to WA's rental stock.
'Adding more than 700 homes is a fantastic outcome and extending the schemes will provide more opportunity for people to access the incentives and get their homes back onto the long-term rental market,' she said.
'Ensuring all Western Australians can access a secure housing is a priority for our government and these initiatives will provide even more housing opportunities for people to find a home.'
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