We acknowledge Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the First Peoples and the Traditional Custodians of Ngunnawal Country, the land on which we meet today. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging, and also recognise any other people or families with connection to the ACT and Region.
James Goodwin, CEO, Accommodation Australia, on Canberra’s accommodation sector trends nationally for 2025
James addressed key issues affecting the accommodation and hospitality sector in Canberra and the broader region. Describing accommodation results for last year, which saw a 1.6% rise in occupancy, as 'good but not great', he advised the need to plan for the long term viability of the sector.
Recognising the challenges faced by industry, James discussed the importance of collaboration between industry stakeholders and government. Pointing to opportunities for growth, particularly by increasing international visitation from both established and emerging markets, as well as delivering the authentic local experiences that visitors are seeking.
He discussed the skills shortage impacting the industry, rising operational costs, and the need for improved regulation of short-term rental accommodation. These issues form the key priorities that Accommodation Australia is seeking commitment on from all political parties in the lead-up to the 2025 federal election:
- Boosting tourism demand and international competitiveness
- Addressing workforce and skills challenges
- Reforming migration to support industry growth
- Regulating short-term rental accommodation (STRA) for housing stability
- Energy policy and tax relief
Question: Is investment in hotels expected to increase over the next 12 months?
James noted that while significant investment is occurring, delays in building and development approvals pose major challenges to effectively harnessing these investments.
Rowena Abbey, Chair, Regional Development Australia Southern NSW and ACT, on the strategy to develop tourism products across the region
The Regional Development Australia (RDA) Southern NSW & ACT network focuses on local community and economic development across the region acting as an intermediary between local communities and the federal government.
Rowena shared how her small but energetic team advocates for for regional issues that are often overlooked by national policymakers.
Leading a series of initiatives and connecting in through local events, business chambers, and councils, they support business owners, workers, and families within these communities.
Tourism is seen by RDA as a key driver of regional development, and they have identified strong opportunities in ecotourism, cultural experiences, and adventure tourism to drive job creation and business growth.
The RDA Southern NSW & ACT aims to help the region navigate barriers to growth. A current challenge is the strain placed on accommodation by major infrastructure projects, which is limiting visitor access and blocking tourism opportunities for affected towns. Addressing imbalances like this will be essential to supporting long-term success.
A key initiative the RDA offers to strengthen the regional economy and also benefit the visitor economy is supporting employers through its Skilled Migration Programs. Offering skilled workers from overseas a pathway to permanent residency and the chance to build a fulfilling career while enjoying a vibrant yet peaceful regional Australian community.
Rowena emphasised Canberra’s role as a gateway to the broader region. Highlighting the opportunities for collaboration through strategic coordination and joint marketing to increase visibility and attract increased domestic and international visitors to the region.
Ashlee Berry, ACT and Capital Region Executive Director, on the revitalisation of Canberra’s city centre to become a world-class destination
Sharing a compelling picture for the future of Canberra’s city centre, Ashlee highlighted how people need to be at the heart of city planning.
While Civic generates a significant portion of the ACT’s economic productivity, the city centre is currently underutilised and addressing current issues is essential to ensuring that Canberra evolves alongside its growing regional population.
Key challenges include high vacancy rates and ageing infrastructure, as well as post-pandemic shifts in work and social habits, and these must be factored into planning. Canberra must adopt a forward-thinking approach to urban development.
Ashlee proposed several solutions to transform Civic into a thriving destination. These included more residential accommodation, expanded cultural and convention facilities, underground roadways, enhanced public spaces, and better transport and parking solutions.
She stressed the need for a clear vision and strategic investment, suggesting that public-private partnerships (PPPs) could accelerate development and ensure key projects become a reality.
While small improvements, such as enhancing public spaces and promoting Canberra’s strengths, can make an immediate impact, long-term planning will be needed and must focus on securing investments and policy changes.
With bold decisions and a commitment to progress, Ashlee is certain Canberra can position itself as a diverse and vibrant place to live, work, and visit.
Question: What can be done over the next 12 to 18 months to address the current challenges?
Ashlee reiterated the importance of advocacy and a shared vision for Canberra’s future. She encouraged businesses, government, and the community to champion Canberra as a dynamic, exciting, and world-class destination.
Dr David Marshall, Chair of the Leaders Forum highlighted:
Congratulations to all our winners at the National Tourism Awards.
Congratulations to Edward Peterson from Doma Hotels who has been named one of the world's best luxury hotel receptionist at an international competition in Athens last month.
Welcome to Shane Jolly as the new general manager of the Hyatt Hotel Canberra.
Reminder to head out to the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre on Saturdays from 11am to 3pm, and enjoy a wine tasting with Emma Shaw showcasing wines from the Canberra region.
Congratulations to Craig Wagstaff and team at amplifyCBR for another excellent Sky Fire event.
Next forum Friday 2 May 2025.
Speakers will include: Michael Pettersson MLA, ACT Minister for Business, Arts and Creative Industries and Skills; Hon Bill Shorten, University of Canberra’s Vice Chancellor; Kalina Koloff, Chair Destination Southern NSW and NSW Cross Border Commissioner