The Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC) has taken over Star Ratings Australia and says it will maintain and enhance the program “for the benefit of both consumers and accommodation operators”.
The Star Ratings scheme, which is currently owned via Star Ratings Australia by the Australian Motoring Clubs, including NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAA, RAC, RACT and AANT, will be transferred at no cost to ATIC from 1 July 2017.
ATIC is the non-profit organisation representing the State tourism industry associations and ATIC also operates the Australian Tourism Awards and Accreditation Programs.
“The tourism industry is committed to continuing the Star Ratings scheme as a valuable asset for accommodation businesses and an important resource for consumers seeking quality accommodation,” said ATIC Chair, Evan Hall.
“ATIC and the Australian Motoring Clubs are committed to a seamless transition of Star Ratings for accommodation operators.”
Star Ratings Australia CEO, Michael Reed, said: “The Automobile Clubs have been committed to providing travellers with an independent accommodation rating scheme for all these years and are delighted to pass the baton to ATIC who we know will continue it to the same high standard.”
Federal Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Steven Ciobo said the Star Ratings scheme was of great value to tourism businesses and consumers.
“For more than 50 years, the Star Ratings Scheme has been recognised as a standard of excellence across Australia,” he said.
“I commend ATIC for continuing Star Ratings in the best interests of the tourism industry. Under ATIC, the program will continue to provide consumers and businesses with this mark of quality thus contributing to a reputable, quality tourism industry”.