Updates to Rottnest Island booking system reflects feedback to unfair online reselling

The Rottnest Island Authority is updating its accommodation booking terms and conditions following the launch of the new Stay Rottnest booking site earlier this month with the changes reflecting customer feedback that the online reselling of Rottnest Island bookings to unknown third parties, rather than returning them to Stay Rottnest for general resale, was unfair.

All new bookings made from Wednesday, 4th January 2023 will be subject to a new condition preventing the transfer of ownership to another person.

The original guest will now remain as the owner of the booking.

The new system still offers guests the flexibility to share accommodation with family and friends.

The owner may add another person to check in to the accommodation. But the original guest's details will remain on the booking and they will be liable for any costs related to accommodation for the duration of their booking.

This may include damage, cleaning fees or charges related to the behaviour of the guests staying within the accommodation.

Bookings made before 4th January 2023 will remain transferable as per the terms and conditions that applied at the time of booking.

WA Tourism Minister Roger Cook advised "as bookings can be made up to nine months in advance, there are often a number of reasons why a customer may need to either amend or cancel their booking.

"The change to the booking terms and conditions is expected to encourage customers to return unwanted bookings to Stay Rottnest, making the resale available to everyone.

"This builds on recent customer-friendly updates such as the new Stay Rottnest booking site, amendments to cancellation fees and reduced deposit requirements fees.

"The Authority is committed to the continuous review of booking terms and conditions to provide fair and equal access to island accommodation."