Peak hotel bodies one step closer to amalgamation

Peak hotel bodies one step closer to amalgamation
By Alexandra Coulton


The Accommodation Association of Australia and the Australian Hotels Association are one step closer to combining forces with both agreeing on a Scheme of Amalgamation.

Accommodation Australia will become a single national voice for the sector through the proposed merging of the Accommodation Association (AAoA) and Tourism Accommodation Australia.

With both the AAoA and the AHA registered under the Fair Work (Registered Organisations) Act, there are a number of regulatory steps to follow as part of the proposed amalgamation process, which is on track for completion in mid-2023, including a Fair Work Commission hearing in late November as part of its decision to allow the amalgamation to go to a member ballot.

In February 2023, the Australian Electoral Commission will conduct a secret postal ballot of AAoA members and in April, the FWC will make its final orders regarding the proposed amalgamation

It’s intended that Leanne Harwood will be the inaugural president of the merged entity, with Sean Hunt as VP, and Bruce Copland as treasurer.

“With substantial work from both organisations over the past 16 months, the amalgamation is now progressing to the next stage,” Harwood said.

“As member-led and member-driven organisations, we stand united in our mission to deliver members a new merged body with an independent board and leadership team to best represent their interests.

“We are one step closer to unlocking the power of a unified national voice for the accommodation industry, which is critical as we continue to rebuild our businesses after one of the worst trading environments in decades.”

Hunt added that agreeing on a scheme of amalgamation was a pivotal moment for the accommodation sector nationwide.

“For the first time we have come together with one voice – it truly is a historic moment,” Hunt said.

“After a tough two years for our industry, it is great to see both the Accommodation Association National Council and the AHA National Executive and Board unanimously agree to move forward together – with the proposed rules and scheme of amalgamation now going to the Fair Work Commission for approval.

“While there are still some steps to take along the road, today marks a major milestone to providing that one strong, united voice for accommodation, a voice in which all members and stakeholders have a say as we work together for the betterment of all.”

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