by Rowland Hill
Investors are the big winners. With occupancy rates averaging 67.7 per cent in 2022, and reaching 86 per cent last September, SSL owners collected almost $180m in rent in 2022 (AEC Economics).
Some workers: The SSL industry generated employment for cleaners, gardeners and maintenance workers with annual wages ranging from $35k to $106k per employee.
And who loses?
Residents – whose lives are disrupted, and health compromised. Some have left town.
The community – Noosa residents have been notable over the past 60 years for their volunteerism, in sport, the arts and environmental conservation, making Noosa what it is today. Visitors may not have such loyalty or commitment. They are likely to have a ‘taker’ rather than ‘giver’ mentality (AEC)
Business owners – visitors generally focus their spend on food, beverage and retail. Spending by residents is more diverse, including on critical services such as health, education, and community care and support (AEC). As 86 per cent of SSL owners (Council figures) live outside Noosa their profits aren’t necessarily spent in Nooa
Renters – there are 800 fewer long term rental properties available today than there were in 2012 (AEC). Rents have risen from $370 to $680 a week. (AEC)
Essential workers – the hospitality, health sector and retail employees no longer able to find affordable places
It's a sad and historically repeated situation where a minority bully their way into advancing their self interest at the expense of the majority.