The Accommodation Australia Board has rejuvenated itself in the lead up to the 2025 Federal election, with four new appointments boosting experience and nationwide representation for the peak industry body.

This week’s board meeting in Brisbane saw the appointment of EVT Area General Manager Joanna Carruthers,  Marriott Area Vice-President Australia, New Zealand & Pacific – Jason Nuell, Ovolo Group Chief Operating Officer Wayne Taranto and Crown Hotels & Resorts Executive General Manager Perth Andrew Cairns.

AA Chair David Mansfield said all were welcome additions, bringing decades of experience and expertise to the board at a pivotal time for the industry – just in time for an election year.

"All four of our new board members are respected right across the accommodation and tourism sectors – and I  welcome them all,” Mr Mansfield said.

“From immigration and visa reform to skills and training there are important issues facing members at the Federal  level. It has never been more important for accommodation to speak with a united voice - and that is what AA  represents, just about every hotel bed in Australia.

“The message for members is simple – rest assured we have the perfect team in place to support AA CEO James  Goodwin and I in the lead up to the election.”

The Brisbane board meeting on Monday covered a range of current and emerging policy issues affecting AA members.

"Naturally, workforce challenges and understanding the impact of planned migration and visa reforms on the sector remain priorities for us and were discussed at length,” AA CEO James Goodwin said. 

“We are also committed to working together to encourage stronger domestic and international tourism including  improving airline connectivity and affordability.”

AA state managers also met separately on Tuesday in Brisbane discussing a range of issues including the election,  Working Holiday Makers, rising operating costs and AA’s new employment platform.

Accommodation Australia Board of Directors 2025

• David Mansfield; Chair 
• Emma Hynes; Deputy Chair
• Bruce Copland; Treasurer
• Tracy Atherton; Board Member
• Andrew Cairns; Board Member 
• Joanna Caruthers; Board Member 
• Julian Clark; Board Member
• Paul Hutton; Board Member
• Jason Nuell; Board Member
• Barry Robinson; Board Member
• Wayne Taranto; Board Member
• Adrian Williams; Board Member 
• Geoff York; Board Member
• James Goodwin; Board Member

More Accommodation Australia readings

AA appoint James Goodwin CEO Accommodation Australia

Accommodation Australia Ceo Michael Johnson Steps Down

Accommodation Australia appoints David Mansfield new Chair of its National Board