Victoria could introduce 7.5% levy on Airbnb prices

Fee for consumers using short-term accommodation across the state could raise $42m for government

• Follow our Australia news live blog for latest updates
• Get our morning and afternoon news emails, free app or daily news podcast

Short-stay accommodation provided by companies such as Airbnb in Victoria could be subject to a levy as high as 7.5%, under an Australian-first proposal being put to state cabinet next week.

Guardian Australia has confirmed a consumer-facing levy on short-term stays will form a key part of the Victorian government's housing statement, which will be released as early as next week.