In a ground breaking move, key members of two major accommodation industry associations the Hotel Motel Association of Australia (HMAA) and the Australian Hotels Association (AHA) met September 17 with CEOs of major Australia hotel groups to discuss common issues effecting Australia’s $7 billion tourism industry.

The presidents and CEO’s of both the HMAA and AHA have agreed to develop a common approach on major issues concerning the accommodation sector in Australia.

AHA president John Thorpe said, “The AHA and HMAA will use the last weeks of the election campaign to argue for a more practical approach to the regulations effecting Australia’s aviation industry.” He said, “The demise of Ansett and the replacement of Qantas flights with Jetstar services to the key tourist destinations is beginning to have a detrimental effect on the accommodation industry, and Australia’s ability to attract high yield international visitors and conventions.”

“We believe that international tourists should not be expected to fly long distances to get to Australia and spend lengthy periods touring our vast continent, while only being offered a “dumbed down” airline industry.” “The commonwealth is spending large amounts of taxpayers money promoting Australia as “Platinum Plus” destination, but there is a stark difference in the quality of service some airlines are offering, in comparison to the rest of the tourism industry in key global destinations.”

HMAA president Garry Crocket commented, “The tourism infrastructure around Australia has not just been designed for backpackers. Serious investors have put major funding into the development, design and training of staff for top quality accommodation facilities to fulfil the dreams and aspirations of visitors.” “Full service airline connections to major locations are critical to the attraction and development of the lucrative business and event travel sector.”

“Our two groups met (September 17) and agreed that if the current domestic airline players cannot offer an appropriate level of service, the next government should consider allowing quality airlines like Emirates and Gulf Air the opportunity to increase their landing rights to Australia, carry international passengers on domestic legs and allow Singapore Airlines an opportunity to compete on key domestic routes,” concluded Mr Crocket.