Accommodation Australia pledges to create a diverse voice for the sector
The Panel Pledge ensures AA will only organise or support public & professional forums that include diverse speakers and panel members
The nation’s peak accommodation body – Accommodation Australia (AA) – has committed to increasing the diversity of voices in public and professional forums as part of a ‘Panel Pledge’, recently endorsed by its national board.
One of the National Board’s first initiatives, the Panel Pledge ensures AA will only organise or support public and professional forums that include diverse speakers and panel members. The pledge also includes supporting the presence of strong female voices at industry forums and events.
“This is a great step forward. AA organises and supports multiple public and professional forums involving the accommodation sector throughout the year,” Accommodation Association Chair Leanne Harwood said.
“We have not only the opportunity but the responsibility to advance diversity, equity and inclusion in the sector wherever we can by improving representation in those forums.”
“I’m proud the Pledge was one of the first initiatives of the newly formed national board. It supports our vision for the accommodation sector to continuously evolve to meet members’ and customers’ wants and aspirations.
“As part of this initiative, we are also encouraging members in the accommodation sector to participate by making their own commitment to the Diversity Pledge.”
AA CEO Michael Johnson said the Panel Pledge will help encourage collective insights and diverse perspectives across the sector and best represent all aspects of diversity including age, sexuality, gender, culture, and physical ability.
“Accommodation Australia and its leaders set an example for members, suppliers, and the wider community,” he said.
“We are committed to supporting measures which promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. In addition to ensuring our industry has a diverse voice, the pledge also includes supporting professional development initiatives across the industry.
A dedicated page at www.accommodationaustralia.org provides more information about the Diversity and Panel pledges and an invitation to pledge support by completing an online form.
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