Lodging Houses

A “lodging house” is defined under the Health (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1911 as:

  • Any building or structure, permanent or otherwise, and any part thereof, in which provisions is made for lodging or boarding more than 6 persons, exclusive of the family of the keeper thereof, for hire or reward but the term does not include:
    • Premises licenses under a publican's general license, limited hotel licence, or wayside-house licence, granted under the Liquor Control Act 1988; or
    • Residential accommodation for students in a non-government school within the meaning of the School Education Act 1999; or
    • Any building comprising residential flats.

Typical examples are backpacker hostels and long term residential accommodation facilities.

In general terms, a lodging house should be constructed to ensure it is:

  1. Comfortable - provided with sufficient lighting and ventilation, complies with the approved maximum number of lodgers to prevent overcrowding.
  2. Provided with the basic facilities such as a functional and well maintained kitchen, bathroom(s), laundry units, toilet(s), lounge, dining area(s) and hot and cold water.
  3. Safe and hygienic - approved fire safety measures, emergency evacuation procedures are to be in place (i.e. hard wired smoke detectors, illuminated exit signs and emergency evacuation procedures in each room), and ensure that the general state of cleanliness is aesthetically satisfactory.

Application Process

If you are considering opening a premises that may be classed as a lodging house refer to the Start your business - City approvals and permits webpage first as this covers all planning, building and health information. 

Refer to the below lodging house guidelines for information on structural, equipment, maintenance and local requirements for lodging houses.

If food is to be provided as part of the service, the business also need to be registered under the Food Act 2008. Please refer to the Food & Beverage Businesses page for further information.

Where the lodging house is sold, the new owner will need to complete the below change of ownership form.  

Before the commencement of any development, alteration or extension of any lodging house, the City should be advised in writing and prior approval obtained.

Resources

Lodging House Guidelines 

Lodging House Registration Form

Lodging House Notice of Change of Ownership

More Information 

Contact Health Services on 9273 6533 or email [email protected].

Was this page helpful?