How many total hotels are there in Australia?

Australia is a large and diverse country with a thriving tourism industry. Its unique landscapes, wildlife, and cultural landmarks attract visitors worldwide. Hotels are integral to the tourism infrastructure, providing accommodations for business travellers, tourists, and locals. The number of total hotels in Australia requires some analysis and consideration of various factors.

Overview of Australia's Tourism Industry

Australia is known for its iconic landmarks, such as the Sydney Opera House, Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, and expansive natural beauty. Its tourism industry plays a significant economic role, attracting millions yearly visitors. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), tourism contributed about AUD 60.8 billion to the economy in 2018-2019, before the COVID-19 pandemic. The impact of the pandemic significantly affected the industry, but recovery efforts have been ongoing.

Defining Hotels

When we talk about hotels, it's essential to define what counts as a "hotel." Hotels range from large, internationally-branded establishments to small boutique hotels, budget accommodations, motels, inns, lodges, and more. The categorization of these establishments can impact the total count.

Sources of Data on Australian Hotels

The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is a key information source on Australia's tourism and accommodation. The ABS publishes data on the number of establishments, including hotels, motels, serviced apartments, and other accommodations. Industry associations like the Australian Hotels Association (AHA) and Tourism Australia are also valuable sources for industry-specific information.

Estimating the Total Number of Hotels in Australia

To estimate the total number of hotels in Australia, we need to consider different sources of data:

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) Data: The ABS releases annual reports that provide statistics on the accommodation industry in Australia. However, their reports often categorize hotels alongside other accommodations, making it difficult to extract a specific count of hotels.

Industry Reports and Associations: Industry associations like the AHA often have a better grasp of the hotel landscape. They can provide data on registered hotels and industry trends. The AHA has over 5,000 members, including various establishments, not just traditional hotels.

Tourism Australia and Travel Platforms: Platforms like Tourism Australia, which promote tourism in Australia, can also offer insights into the number of hotels across different regions. Online travel platforms like TripAdvisor or Booking.com list thousands of hotels in Australia, but these platforms also include other forms of accommodation.

Challenges in Getting an Exact Count

One of the challenges in determining the exact number of hotels in Australia is that the industry is diverse and constantly changing. Hotels open and close, change names, or are rebranded. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has caused significant shifts in the hospitality industry, leading to closures and changes in business models. This has made it challenging to maintain an up-to-date count of total hotels.

A General Estimate

Given these challenges, providing an exact number of hotels in Australia is difficult. However, based on available data, estimates, and industry reports, it's generally believed that Australia has approximately 5,000-6,000 hotels. This estimate includes a wide range of establishments, from small boutique hotels to large international chains, and encompasses various regions nationwide.

Future Trends and Growth

The number of hotels in Australia is likely to evolve as the tourism industry continues to recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. As international travel resumes and domestic tourism gains momentum, there may be an increase in the construction of new hotels and the reopening of previously closed establishments.

Australia's focus on sustainable tourism and eco-friendly practices may also lead to the development of eco-resorts and environmentally-conscious hotels, contributing to a more diverse accommodation landscape.

Conclusion

While it's challenging to pinpoint the exact number of hotels in Australia, the estimated range of 5,000-6,000 provides a general understanding of the scale of the hospitality industry in the country. This estimate includes various hotels spread across different regions, from large chains to boutique establishments. As the tourism industry continues to recover and evolve, the number of hotels in Australia will likely shift, reflecting changing trends and consumer preferences.