Beechworth B&B operator Margo Maller has been vocal about the disadvantage to her registered business because she pays fees that users of online services like Airbnb are exempt from paying.

She told Indigo councillors at last week’s meeting she was not against the use of internet booking sites.

“It has nothing to do with Airbnb and the like … We can be on that platform too and many are,” she said.

“What’s happening is that we can’t sell our businesses because the perception is that there’s so much in the way of accommodation out there.”

Mayor Jenny O’Connor said although she agreed that Victorian government regulations needed to be tougher, a council audit found properties were complying with current rules.

“I absolutely disagree with you. There are homes that are in our street that are being used as commercial entities that are on websites left, right and centre that do not comply with any of the conditions,” Ms Maller said. 

Councillors voted to put a submission into the Victorian government’s review of the Public Health and Wellbeing Act and asked the public to help with enforcing current regulations.

“If you see something that is not compliant, then please let us know because we don’t have the manpower to be constantly checking everything. We’re very reliant on people letting us know when anything is breached,” Cr O’Connor said.

“Clearly the digital platforms are causing disruption, there’s no question about that.”

Airbnb was pushing for a fairer system for property owners.

“We agree with traditional operators, many of whom are now listing with us, that the rules for home sharing need to change,” a spokesman said.

HomeAway also offers listings for short-term accommodation in the area and corporate affairs director Eacham Curry said it was important for all properties to meet minimum standards.

“HomeAway strongly supports a state-wide regulatory response that contains a three strikes disciplinary regime for poor behaviour, a simple registration scheme for all listings, and an industry body to adjudicate questions of amenity, noise and overcrowding,” he said.

“This three-pronged regulatory solution will give communities the certainty they crave.”