Multiple Australian outlets report that rental availability is tightening in some Western Australian towns and suburbs, with long-term vacancies becoming harder to find. The articles describe a rise in short-term accommodation—particularly properties advertised on platforms such as Airbnb—as a key factor behind the change. According to the coverage, homes that previously entered the long-term rental market are increasingly being used for short stays, reducing the number of properties available to tenants seeking longer leases.
The reports frame the effect as uneven across locations, noting that certain towns and suburbs are seeing more acute shortages. They also highlight that demand for short-term stays—often linked to tourism or temporary accommodation needs—can make it easier for property owners to choose short-term arrangements over longer tenancies.
Overall, the sources agree that the growth of short-term letting is contributing to a situation in which prospective renters face limited options, while properties may still be available for holiday-style stays.
