Lockbox Regulations in Melbourne: What You Need to Know (2023 update)
If you're a property owner in Melbourne, chances are you're familiar with the convenience of lockboxes or key safes. They were an easy way to allow access to your property without having to be physically present. However, if you're considering using lock boxes in public spaces, it's important to be aware of the regulations surrounding their use.
Is it legal to use lockboxes in Melbourne?
It is illegal to attach lockboxes to council infrastructure in Melbourne. This is because they can impede access to services, cause property damage, or obstruct genuine use of the structure. As such, the City of Melbourne is asking all owners of these lock boxes to remove them immediately.
What to do if you have a lockbox in Melbourne right now?
If you have a lockbox attached to council infrastructure, you should remove it as soon as possible to avoid any potential fines or penalties. Any removed lockboxes will be stored for two weeks, after which they will be destroyed. If you're the owner of a lockbox that has been removed, you can claim your property by contacting the City of Melbourne and making an appointment time. Proof of ownership will be required.
Can I attach a lockbox to a bike stand or an unused bike in Melbourne?
While it may be tempting to attach lockboxes to disused bikes and lock them to infrastructure, this is also not permitted under council regulations. This can cause property damage and is considered an obstruction to the genuine use of the structure.
It's also worth noting that lock boxes can be vulnerable to break-ins and thefts, especially if they are attached to public infrastructure. Criminals can target lockboxes to gain access to properties, which can lead to costly damages or theft.
Are lockboxes the best choice for apartment key storage?
Lockboxes not only violate Melbourne's laws but also may not offer the same level of security and functionality as newer alternatives. Lockboxes do not offer the same level of control as smartlocks or key exchange services, as hosts will not be able to monitor who can accesses their properties, which can be a major security concern. Lockboxes do not provide the host with live key tracking, which can lead to the next guest attempting to collect the key only to find it has not been returned yet.
If you're an Airbnb host, it's crucial to be aware of the regulations concerning lockboxes. While they can be a convenient way to provide access to your guests, it's important to ensure that they are used legally and responsibly.
For more information on lock box regulations in Melbourne, visit the City of Melbourne website.
What is a secure and transparent alternative to lock boxes in Melbourne, for key storage and exchange?
So, what are your options if you need to provide access to your property when you're not in the area during the check-in or check-out time? You can use a KeyNest Point, of course!
KeyNest provides Airbnb hosts with a network of secure and reliable local Points (stores, cafes, petrol stations) to automate their guest and contractor key collections and drop-offs. We have recently expanded to 17 new locations around Melbourne, and are adding more every week!
We offer a web platform or mobile app that can be used to track and exchange keys remotely, and the host will always get informed while the key is moved. For the key to be collected, a guest or a contractor needs to provide a secure 6-digit collection code, which makes the whole process safe, but also extremely simple.
