6 minute read
From the CEO
from Hotel SA July 2023
by Boylen
KEY ISSUES
ANNA MOELLER
In the words of our outgoing and longstanding CEO Ian Horne one of the greatest strengths of the AHA|SA is our stability. As I write this column on day two in the role I am reminded of my initial response when asked what my plans were moving forward. There was no question in my mind that what was needed was evolution not revolution.
The legacy left by Ian after a total of 33 years at the AHA is an incredibly strong and sound one to build upon. And indeed the show must and is going on in the liquor, gaming and accommodation spaces.
On 1 July 2023 the Accommodation Association of Australia (AAOA) and Tourism Accommodation Australia (TAA) merged, with the new Accommodation Australia (AA) enabling the industry to move forward through one united voice. We look forward to welcoming and working with members both new and old.
The gaming space is always active and this has certainly not changed. Gaming Codes of Practice are currently under review and as always we continue to work closely with both the regulator and government to maintain the balance of both a vibrant industry economy along with an approach to harm minimisation that is arguably the best in the nation.
There was no question in my mind that what was needed was evolution not revolution.
Also under review is the approach to trading rounds. The Licensing and Gambling Commissioner is now undertaking targeted consultation to gauge support for modifications to the rules of the approved trading system. We have been a strong advocate for some time now for the adoption of a streamlined ‘open market’ approach to trading entitlements and we are hopeful that the proposals under Anna consideration will go some way to achieving just that.
The licensing environment is also under scrutiny. Whilst reform in this space is most often approached with great apprehension by the hotel industry, on this occasion it should be seen as an opportunity. In many ways it will be our chance to reform the last set of reforms that in practice risk undermining the value of hotels, thereby placing at risk their capacity to employ and remain the centre piece of their communities.
Finally over my past almost four years with the AHA I have had the pleasure of meeting and interacting with many of you. Whilst I can’t promise you a tally of 33 years I do look forward to continuing to engage with you all into the future, learning from you and working with you to protect and promote our wonderful industry.
