As the Grand Slam in Melbourne gets underway and the highly anticipated Taylor Swift concert approaches in February, Airbnb is urging residents to open up their homes to accommodate the increased demand for accommodation. With competitors, organizers, media, and fans from around the world descending upon Melbourne for these two major events, the city is expecting a surge in visitors.
Increase in Demand for Accommodation
Event organizers and city representatives have already predicted a significant increase in visitors for both the tennis tournament and Taylor Swift’s tour. Airbnb data reveals that there has been a 30% rise in searches for accommodation in Melbourne during the 2024 tennis tournament and a staggering 300% increase in searches for bookings during the dates of Taylor Swift’s tour kick-off.
Airbnb’s Call to Melbourne Residents
Susan Wheeldon, Airbnb’s Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand, emphasizes the importance of residents considering becoming hosts during these events. Wheeldon states, “There has never been a better time for people living in Melbourne and surrounding suburbs to consider becoming a Host. New and existing Airbnb Hosts provide a vital lifeline to event organizers by providing greater accommodation capacity, while also offsetting their own rising living costs.”
Wheeldon further highlights the opportunity for hosts to showcase the unique qualities of Melbourne and its surrounding suburbs. She mentions that Melbourne is not only one of the top trending destinations for Airbnb travelers globally in 2024 but also hosts several exciting major events next year, including the tennis tournament, Taylor Swift concert, F1 race, Moto GP, and Spring Racing Carnival.
Additionally, Wheeldon emphasizes the valuable role hosts play in making guests feel welcome and supporting local businesses. Melbourne hosts are known for their hospitality, providing guests with insider tips on hidden gems and local establishments to explore.
Benefits for Guests and Hosts
With a wide range of options to suit every preference and budget, including affordable private rooms with average stays just over $100 per night, both guests and hosts can enjoy significant benefits during these events. Locals who have hosted during the tennis tournament in the past have earned an average of over $2,000, equivalent to nearly double a week’s extra pay for the median Australian household.
Positive Impact on the Economy
A recent report by Oxford Economics highlights the substantial economic impact of Airbnb guests traveling to Victoria. In the 12 months leading up to March 2023, these guests spent over $3.1 billion, with $1.6 billion spent in Greater Melbourne alone. Furthermore, Airbnb’s presence supported nearly 26,000 jobs across the state.
In conclusion, as Melbourne prepares for the Grand Slam and Taylor Swift concert, Airbnb encourages residents to embrace the opportunity to become hosts. By sharing their homes, they not only contribute to the city’s accommodation capacity but also have the chance to showcase Melbourne’s unique charm and support the local economy.
Quote from Susan Wheeldon, Airbnb’s Country Manager for Australia and New Zealand:
“There has never been a better time for people living in Melbourne and surrounding suburbs to consider becoming a Host.”
Conclusion:
With the Grand Slam and Taylor Swift concert drawing international attention to Melbourne, Airbnb provides a platform for residents to capitalize on the increased demand for accommodation. By becoming hosts, Melburnians can not only earn extra income but also play a crucial role in showcasing their city’s vibrant culture and supporting local businesses.
George Barham, an accomplished journalist and avid gambling enthusiast, serves as the esteemed Editor-in-Chief at fly-to-australia.com, Australia’s leading source for comprehensive gambling news and insights. With an unwavering passion for both the written word and the ever-evolving world of betting and gaming, George brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the helm of our editorial team.
