Tourism Australia Managing Director Andrew McEvoy hopes the entry of Hooroo.com into the online accommodation marketplace will further boost domestic tourism by offering a new and additional platform to promote and sell Australian holidays.

“We undoubtedly live in a digital age now, with the internet and social media platforms playing a major role in the way we plan and book our travel,” Mr McEvoy said.

“It’s good to see Hooroo responding so positively to this changing landscape by integrating digital, social media and advocacy into their core marketing and commercial activities.

“Australia as an aspiring travel destination will have its compelling tourism product offering only further competitively promoted through this innovative commercial venture.

“We know that compelling destination content and competitive deals can play a big part in stimulating people’s desire to explore and travel. The creation of the new Hooroo.com social travel site seems to embrace this insight, together with a comprehensive accommodation booking engine, which we’re hoping will inspire more Australians to reconsider their own backyard and take the next step by booking a domestic holiday or getaway,” Mr McEvoy said.