Airbnb has unveiled the winners of its 2025 Australian Host Awards, celebrating the creativity, care and community impact of local hosts across the country.
From a heritage-listed Hobart bakery turned boutique retreat to a nature-filled sanctuary in Kangaroo Valley, this year’s winners prove how hosting can transform spaces into unforgettable guest memories.
The annual awards recognise hosts who go above and beyond, welcoming guests with warmth, thoughtful design and local flavour. Categories include: Best Design Stay, Best Nature Stay, Best Family Friendly Stay, Best Room Stay, Best New Host and the coveted Host of the Year.
Susan Wheeldon, Airbnb’s Country Manager for Australia said: “Our local Aussie hosts are shaping the future of travel by creating spaces that reflect local culture, foster genuine connection and support their communities.
“Their hospitality is more than just welcoming guests. These hosts actively support small businesses, help to revitalise neighbourhoods and hosting provides families with an income stream. These award-winning stays demonstrate the powerful role Airbnb hosting plays in fostering economic opportunity and community-led tourism.”
According to a recent report by Oxford Economics, the spending associated with Airbnb generated an estimated $20.3 billion in economic activity in 2024. Domestic travel was a major driver, with domestic guests accounting for around 84 per cent of Airbnb stays. In 2024, guest spending reached $16 billion across the country, helping small businesses thrive and spreading tourism benefits well beyond the major cities.
Winning hosts were selected based on extensive Airbnb data, guest scores and reviews, with oversight from a panel of judges including Susan Wheeldon and Host Advisory Board members, Geoff Gedge and Sarah Huang.
