Negotiations are underway to create one united voice for the accommodation industry nationwide, it has been confirmed.

The Accommodation Association, Australian Hotels Association and Tourism Accommodation Association currently function as three distinct bodies, with TAA operating as a division of the AHA.

Australian Hotels Association (AHA) President Scott Leach said a working party featuring representatives from each group had been meeting "behind the scenes".

At a glance: 

• The Australian Hotels Association and Accommodation Association have confirmed they are in negotiations to combine as a united voice for the sector.
• The Accommodation Association, Australian Hotels Association and Tourism Accommodation Association currently function as three distinct industry bodies, with TAA operating as a division of the AHA.
• A working party featuring representatives from each group has been meeting in the hope of combining their efforts.

“This working party is making progress and we remain confident of finally bringing the AHA, TAA and AAoA together at this crucial time for our industry,” he said.

The AHA has more than 5,000 members across Australia and is serviced by a network of branches based in every state and territory, plus a Canberra-based National Office, while the Accommodation Association represents close to 3,500 hotels across the country.

Both organisations have been vocal in ensuring there is adequate support for the sector in the wake of COVID-19, lobbying governments extensively at both a state and federal level.

Accommodation Association President Julian Clark said they were now getting together in the hope of combining their efforts for the struggling sector.

“A small working party has been put together to work on new model representing one clear national voice for the accommodation sector,” he said.

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