In a bold step towards building a more inclusive and equitable workforce, Accor—a global leader in the hospitality industry—has partnered with Community Corporate to launch a transformative employment initiative aimed at hiring refugees and migrants across its operations in Australia. This forward-thinking collaboration has already seen the successful placement of nearly 100 individuals from 18 different cultural backgrounds into meaningful employment roles at 17 Accor hotels and Qantas lounges nationwide.
What sets this initiative apart is its strong emphasis on women’s empowerment, with 68% of the hires being women, many of whom faced barriers to employment due to displacement, lack of formal experience, or language challenges. By providing training, mentorship, and career development pathways, Accor is not merely filling job vacancies—it is helping individuals rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.
The diversity introduced through this program has significantly enriched the guest experience at Accor’s iconic properties, including Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour and Novotel Sydney Darling Harbour, where employees now speak a combined 22 languages. This multicultural workforce reflects the very ethos of hospitality—welcoming and connecting people from all walks of life.
Adrian Williams, Chief Operating Officer of Accor Pacific, emphasized the human side of the hospitality business, stating,
“Hospitality is about people. It’s about the richness they bring and the diversity they contribute.”
He also encouraged others in the industry to follow suit, highlighting the importance of embracing untapped talent pools and supporting community-led employment models that can drive systemic change.
This initiative stands as a powerful example of inclusive hiring in action, proving that when business objectives align with social responsibility, the outcomes can be transformative. By actively supporting refugees and migrants, Accor not only strengthens its workforce but also demonstrates leadership in building a more compassionate and connected society.
The company’s commitment sets a new benchmark in the global hospitality sector—where diversity is not only celebrated but embedded in the culture of progress and possibility.
