TAA/AA amalgamation secret ballot underway
AA members urged to vote in critical next stage of proposed merger
A secret postal ballot by Accommodation Association of Australia (AA) members, the results of which could have major ramifications for the proposed AA and Tourism Accommodation Australia (TAA) amalgamation, is now underway.
The ballot follows a Fair Work Commission (FWC) decision to give the green light to the next stage in the proposed amalgamation which has seen the Australian Electoral Commission post ballot papers this week to AA members with voting closing off on February 13, 2023.
Following the ballot, and depending on the outcome, the FWC will then make its final orders regarding the proposed amalgamation.
It is intended that Leanne Harwood will be the inaugural President of the merged entity, with Sean Hunt as Vice President, and Bruce Copland as Treasurer.
TAA CEO and interim AA CEO, Michael Johnson said the FWC decision allowing for a secret postal ballot of AA members through to 13 February is very exciting news.
“The fact that the FWC process has gone as smoothly as it has is the result of the robust and detailed case developed over the past 19 months led by the amalgamation working group and supported by the AA Council and the TAA Board,” he said.
“It is important that all eligible members vote as part of this process and return ballot papers in time for the 13 February deadline.
“As member-led and member-driven organisations, we are aligned on the critical importance of a new merged body with an independent board and leadership team to best represent their interests.
“This is more important now than ever as we rebuild after one of the most challenging trading periods ever.”
Mike Parker-Brown is a UK-trained and qualified journalist and an award-winning travel communicator with more than 30 years experience.
Since 2002, Mike has worked as a freelance writer and PR consultant providing his services to major organisations in Australia and internationally in the tourism, aviation, hospitality, recruitment and export marketing sectors.
