Unhosted Short-Term Rental Accommodation - Local Planning Policy
Published on Wednesday, 6 May 2026 at 8:00:00 AM
The Shire is seeking feedback on a new Unhosted Short-Term Rental Accommodation Local Planning Policy (Policy).
Given that Unhosted Short-Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) has been operating successfully within the Shire without the requirement for a development approval, it is proposed to continue with a business-as-usual approach by generally exempting Unhosted STRA, up to six occupants, from development approval by way of a new Policy. This exemption is not proposed to apply to new Unhosted STRA in Dwellingup, however, where there is a growing issue with Unhosted STRA absorbing available permanent housing stock.
The objectives of the draft Policy are to:
(a) Provide a clear and consistent framework for the assessment of Unhosted STRA.
(b) Allow existing authorised Unhosted STRA to continue operating, subject to compliance requirements.
(c) Exempt small-scale, low-impact STRA from development approval where consistent with residential amenity.
(d) Support tourism while ensuring it does not compromise housing availability or the long term sustainability of local communities.
(e) Prioritise the retention and provision of permanent residential accommodation, within the Dwellingup and Surrounding Area.
(f) Ensure that new Unhosted STRA are compatible with the character, amenity, servicing capacity and environmental constraints of their locality.
(g) Avoid cumulative impacts that would erode housing availability, community cohesion, population stability or the viability of local services.
Documents relating to the proposals are available for viewing here or alternatively:
- at the Shire of Murray Administration Office, 1915 Pinjarra Road, Pinjarra
- at the Murray Library, cnr Pinjarra Road and Forrest Street, Pinjarra.
Submissions should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer, Shire of Murray, and can be made below.
Alternatively, submissions can be returned via email or post:
Written submissions should include the name and address of the person making the submission and the property affected.
Submissions close 4.30 Wednesday 27 May 2026.
Dean Unsworth
Chief Executive Officer
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