Airbnb announces generous offer for flood victims

Airbnb hosts can now offer free, temporary accommodation to evacuees impacted by the NSW floods, as part of a coordinated effort with the Australian Red Cross and the Australian Government.

The initiative will allow hosts on Airbnb to offer up their homes to people displaced by the flooding that has impacted many areas in the state.

Susan Wheeldon, Airbnb’s Country Manager for Australia, said the company is grateful for the generosity of the Australian Host community during this difficult time.

Airbnb host prepares bed for guests
The coordinated effort will allow hosts on Airbnb to offer up their homes for free to people displaced by the NSW floods. Source: AirBnB

“Our hearts go out to all those impacted by the floods and the local authorities working hard to keep our communities safe,” said Ms Wheeldon.

She explained that through this effort, hosts on the platform can help people displaced by the NSW floods by offering them free, emergency accommodation.

“We are grateful for the generosity of our host community and proud to support the work of the Australian Red Cross as they continue to coordinate closely with local emergency agencies and other local partners to help those in need,” she said.

How Airbnb hosts can volunteer their homes for evacuees

Hosts on Airbnb can volunteer their rental homes to flood evacuees by providing their contact information using the online form on Airbnb’s dedicated Floods 2022 website page.

Airbnb will then work with the Australian Red Cross to provide impacted people and those in need with free, temporary accommodation.

Australian Red Cross worker with flood victims
Airbnb will work with the Australian Red Cross to provide people affected by NSW floods with free, temporary accommodation. Source: Australian Red Cross

“Our thoughts are with all those affected during this devastating time. Airbnb is committed to supporting those communities affected by the floods,” reads Airbnb’s Floods 2022 page.

The dedicated page thanks all Airbnb hosts who have already “opened their homes to provide free, emergency accommodation” and encourages others “who live near affected areas to consider doing the same”.

'Airbnb hosts can make a valuable difference during times of crisis'

Stuart Ayres, NSW Minister for Tourism and Western Sydney, said that opening up homes to flood evacuees was a vital way people could help those in need.

“This is a terrible situation with thousands of people needing a roof over their heads,” said Mr Ayres.

“We’ve seen in past disasters how Airbnb hosts can make a valuable difference during times of crisis and we want to encourage hosts in impacted areas to volunteer if they’re in a position to be able to offer free, temporary accommodation,” he added.

Meanwhile, Airbnb is also encouraging people to donate to the Australian Red Cross Floods Appeal by visiting redcross.org.au or calling 1800 733 276.

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