FAQ

The below FAQs provides a comprehensive overview of Hotel Etico, addressing potential common questions about its mission, accommodations, services, and unique social enterprise model.

0. Executive Summary

Hotel Etico is more than just a place to stay; it is a pioneering not-for-profit social enterprise with a powerful mission to empower young adults with intellectual disabilities. Originating in Italy and now established in Australia’s Blue Mountains, the hotel provides a comprehensive two-year training program that combines paid, on-the-job hospitality experience with independent living skills taught at the on-site ‘Academy of Independence’.

Guests can enjoy a high-quality hospitality experience in a historic manor, complete with an authentic Italian restaurant, comfortable amenities, and accessible room options. The hotel offers versatile spaces for events and weddings, all while supporting a life-changing cause. The program has a proven track record of success, with graduates moving on to careers with major hotel partners and achieving greater personal independence. The entire operation is managed by a dedicated leadership team and supported by a non-profit structure, ensuring the social mission remains at its core. By staying at, dining at, or supporting Hotel Etico, you contribute directly to a model that champions inclusion, potential, and purpose.

1. About Hotel Etico

What is Hotel Etico?

Hotel Etico is a groundbreaking not-for-profit social enterprise hotel concept with a profound mission to provide people with disabilities with employment, vocational training, and a pathway to independent living. It is Australia’s first not-for-profit social enterprise hotel, modeled after a successful concept that began in Italy. The core belief is that everyone deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential.

What is the story behind Hotel Etico?

The story began in 2006 in Asti, Italy, with a young man named Niccolò Vallese, who has Down Syndrome. During an internship at a restaurant, he shared his dream: “My dream is to work in a hotel”. This inspired the restaurant owners, Antonio and Egidio De Benedetto, to create a structured training program. With the help of local banker Alex Toselli, this idea grew, leading to the opening of the first Albergo Etico (Ethical Hotel) in Italy in 2015.

How did Hotel Etico come to Australia?

The vision expanded to Australia in 2017, founded by Alex Toselli, Andrea Comastri, and Tracylee Arestides. The project received crucial support from Paul and Sandra Salteri and co-seed funding from the Vincent Fairfax Family Foundation. Hotel Etico Australia operates as a registered not-for-profit charity and a certified social enterprise under the name Project Etico Australia Limited.

2. Accommodation

Hotel Etico has locations in the Blue Mountains and Canberra (Australia), Rome (Italy), Tirana (Albania) and Cordoba (Argentina), each offering unique rooms and features.

What types of rooms are available at Hotel Etico in the Blue Mountains, Australia?

Located in a historic 1876 manor, the hotel offers 15 unique rooms with private ensuites. General amenities include heating, mini-fridges, Wi-Fi, and toiletries.

• Heritage Queen Room: Features a queen bed and a private bathroom with a bathtub or shower.

• Standard Queen Room: Comes with a queen bed.

• Standard Twin Room: Contains two twin beds.

• Standard Family Room: Offers one twin bed and one queen bed.

• Large Family Room: Accommodates up to five guests with three twin beds and one full bed.

Is the Blue Mountains hotel accessible for guests with disabilities?

Yes, the hotel has one dedicated accessible room (Room 210) on the ground floor, providing full access to the restaurant, bar, and beer garden. Key features include:

• A wide (76 cm) sliding barn door for entry.

• A spacious roll-in shower (1210mm deep by 900mm wide) with no threshold.

• Grab rails next to the toilet and in the shower.

• An adjustable height shower head and a freestanding shower chair.

• Ample space (at least 92 cm) around the queen-sized bed.

• On-site disabled parking is available.

Note: The hotel rates this room for “Assisted Walking” due to a limited turning circle and limited access, but it may suit some independent wheelchair users. Please contact us prior to booking.

3. Dining

Is there a restaurant on-site?

Yes, Hotel Etico in the Blue Mountains features Niccolo’s Restaurant, which is a cornerstone of the hotel’s social enterprise mission.

What kind of food does Niccolo’s serve?

Niccolo’s Restaurant specializes in Italian-inspired cuisine, with pizzas mentioned as a highlight.

What are the operating hours and reservation policies?

• Dinner: Niccolo’s is open for dinner from Thursday to Saturday evenings. Reservations are required.

• Breakfast: A continental and buffet breakfast is served daily from 7:30 AM to 9:30 AM.

Does the restaurant accommodate special dietary needs?

Yes, the restaurant is well-prepared to cater to various dietary requirements, offering vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free options . Guests are advised to communicate any dietary restrictions when booking to ensure the kitchen can accommodate them. A children’s menu is also available.

4. Amenities & Services

What amenities are available to guests?

Hotel Etico provides a blend of historic charm and modern comforts to ensure a pleasant stay.

• Connectivity: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in rooms and throughout the property.

• Parking: Free self-parking is available for guests, including two electric vehicle charging stations.

• Recreation & Leisure: Guests can enjoy a garden, sun terrace, communal living room with log fires, a library, and a games room. Live music is featured on Friday evenings.

• Guest Services: The hotel offers daily housekeeping, concierge services, and luggage storage.

• In-Room Comforts: All rooms have private bathrooms, refrigerators, electric kettles, electric blankets and premium bedding.

5. Events, Meetings & Weddings

Can I host an event at Hotel Etico?

Yes, Hotel Etico offers a unique and charming heritage setting for meetings, corporate retreats, and weddings. Hosting an event at the hotel also supports its social mission.

What venues are available?

The hotel has several versatile spaces for small to medium-sized events.

• The Restaurant & The Conservatory: Both spaces can be configured for different layouts.

• Expansive Gardens: The beautiful gardens provide a lovely backdrop for events, including wedding ceremonies.

Is catering provided?

Yes, Hotel Etico provides on-site catering featuring Italian cuisine from Niccolo’s Restaurant. Menus can be tailored to suit your event’s needs and budget, and they can accommodate various dietary requirements. For detailed information, it is best to contact the hotel directly at stay@hoteletico.com.au or 0438 511 352.

6. Booking & Hotel Policies

How can I book a room?

You can book a room through several channels:

• Online Travel Agencies: The hotel is listed on sites like Booking.com, Agoda, Wotif, Hotels.com and others.

• Directly with the Hotel: You can book via the hotel’s website, by email, or over the phone (stay@hoteletico.com.au or 0438 511 352).

What are the check-in and check-out times?

• Check-in: 2:00 PM to 8:00 PM. If you plan to arrive after 6:00 PM, please contact the hotel in advance.

• Check-out: By 10:00 AM.

What is the cancellation policy?

The cancellation policy varies depending on the rate and room type you book. While many rates are advertised as “fully refundable with free cancellation,” it is crucial to check the specific terms and conditions of your reservation at the time of booking.

What payment methods are accepted?

The hotel accepts Visa, Mastercard and Eftpos. Please note that credit card payments are subject to a 1.5% surcharge. Cashless payment methods are available.

7. The Social Mission & Training Program

What does the training program for participants involve?

Hotel Etico offers a comprehensive two-year program for young adults with intellectual disabilities, designed to foster both vocational and independent living skills. Trainees are employed from day one and paid full award wages.

What is the ‘Academy of Independence’?

The ‘Academy of Independence’ is a residential component of the program where trainees live in a dedicated on-site apartment. In this immersive, peer-based environment, they learn essential life skills such as:

• Cooking and self-catering.

• Sharing a living space.

• Wellbeing.

What vocational skills are taught?

Trainees receive extensive, on-the-job training by rotating through all hotel departments in 12-week blocks. This includes:

• Housekeeping.

• Guest Services/Reception.

• Restaurant and Bar service.

• Kitchen operations.

The program also includes certifications in areas like Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) and safe food handling. After the first year, graduates are supported for another year as they transition into jobs with partner hotels.

How can someone apply for the Employment and Independence Program and what are the eligibility criteria?

The comprehensive training program at Hotel Etico is designed for young adults with intellectual disabilities who are seeking to gain skills for a career in hospitality and for independent living. The program is structured as a two-year journey, with trainees being employed and paid full award wages from their first day. While specific details about the application process, intake schedule, and any associated costs are best obtained by contacting the hotel directly (submit and EOI here), the program’s curriculum is person-centered and adapted to meet individual needs. Interested individuals and their families are encouraged to reach out to the Hotel Etico team for the most current information on eligibility and how to apply. The organization’s structure includes dedicated roles like an Academy Coordinator, ensuring that inquiries from prospective trainees can be handled by the appropriate staff.

Are there success stories from the program?

Yes, many graduates have gone on to build successful careers and live more independently.

• Quinn Jones, a trainee with autism, transformed from feeling lost about his future to becoming a confident Apprentice Chef. He feels the program made him “more able, mentally and physically”.

• Harry, praised for his strong work ethic, secured a position at the Sofitel Wentworth and later moved to The Fullerton Hotel Sydney.

• Cleo, who excelled at breakfast service, now works at the Song Hotel and Novotel City Centre Sydney.

8. Location & Getting There

Where is Hotel Etico located?

The original Australian hotel is located in the historic Mount Victoria Manor in the Blue Mountains. Address: 11 Montgomery Street, Mount Victoria, New South Wales, 2786, Australia. Two new locations are Leura Gardens Resort, Leura and Mercure Canberra.

How can I get to the Blue Mountains hotel?

• By Train: Intercity trains on the Blue Mountains Line run regularly from Sydney’s Central Station to Mount Victoria Station (approx. 2 hours 19 mins). The hotel is a short walk from the station.

• By Car: From Sydney, take the M4 Motorway. The drive is approximately 90 minutes to Katoomba, with Mount Victoria a bit further. Free on-site parking is available.

What is there to do nearby?

Mount Victoria is the highest township in the Blue Mountains and offers many attractions.

• Local Sights: Visit the Mount Victoria Museum, Mount Piddington Lookout, Sunset Rock Lookout, and the retro Mount Vic Flicks cinema.

• Broader Blue Mountains: The hotel is a great base for exploring Katoomba (home of the Three Sisters), Leura, Blackheath, the Jenolan Caves, and the World Heritage-listed Blue Mountains National Park.

9. Supporting Hotel Etico

How can I support Hotel Etico’s mission?

There are several ways for both individuals and corporations to contribute.

• Donations: You can make a one-off or recurring donation through the hotel’s online fundraising portal.

• Fundraising: Individuals are encouraged to create their own fundraising pages for personal challenges or events.

• Corporate Partnerships: Companies can provide financial backing, in-kind support, or, most importantly, create employment pathways for program graduates. Hotel Etico is also seeking investment partners to help scale its model across Australia. Enquire here.

• Volunteering: Community volunteers support and mentor trainees. Interested individuals should contact the hotel directly for more information ((stay@hoteletico.com.au or 0438 511 352).

10. Leadership & Impact

Who leads Hotel Etico Australia?

The organization is led by a dedicated team of co-founders, board members, and management staff .

• Andrea Comastri: Co-Founder and CEO.

• Alex Toselli: Co-Founder and Co-Chair of the Board.

• Tracylee Arestides: Co-founder and Co-Chair of the Board.

• Saraya O’Connell: COO.

• Board of Directors: The board includes directors with extensive experience in hospitality and business, such as Rachael Martin, Phil Kasselis, and Jon Ackary.

How does the hotel measure its social impact?

Hotel Etico measures its success through both quantitative metrics and a qualitative framework focused on personal growth.

• Key Metrics: The hotel tracks the number of trainees and graduates, total award wages paid, hours of training provided, and the number of employment partners secured.

• Social Return: While a formal analysis for the Australian hotel is not public, its Italian counterpart calculated a social return of €3.72 for every €1 invested, indicating significant value creation.

11. Employer Training Program

Here are some common questions and answers about the training programs offered by Hotel Etico and its partners to help build inclusive workplaces.

What is Hotel Etico?

Hotel Etico is a multi-award-winning, not-for-profit social enterprise. It operates as a hotel that employs and trains young people with disabilities and is a leading provider of disability confidence training for other employers.

What is the main purpose of this training?

The training is designed to build “Confident Teams & Inclusive Workplaces.” It aims to equip employers with the confidence and practical skills to hire, support, and work effectively with people with disabilities, closing the gap between the desire to hire and taking action.

What principles guide the training?

The training is built on four key principles:

• Shaped by lived experience: Developed based on a proven track record in inclusive employment.

• Human-rights based: Grounded in principles that affirm equal employment rights for people with disabilities.

• Collaborative and sector-focused: Practical, hospitality-based training co-developed with people with a disability.

• Best practice: Partnering with sector experts to ensure high-quality, impactful content.

What courses are available?

There are seven main training modules offered:

1. Disability Etiquette

2. Crafting Roles

3. How To Deliver Training (Parts 1 & 2)

4. Disability Rights in the Workplace

5. Working with Neurodivergent Individuals

6. Working with Autistic Adults

7. Working with Adults with Down Syndrome

Who delivers the training sessions?

Hotel Etico provides the training, often in collaboration with subject matter experts. Specific courses are delivered directly by partner organizations:

• Australian Human Rights Commission: Delivers “Disability Rights in the Workplace.”

• re:think dyslexia: Delivers “Working with Neurodivergent Individuals.”

• Aspect Australia: Delivers “Working with Autistic Adults.”

• Down Syndrome Australia: Delivers “Working with Adults with Down Syndrome.”

How is the training delivered?

All training courses can be delivered online or in-person.

What is the cost and duration of the training?

The cost, duration, and maximum number of participants vary by course. The prices below are as of August 2025 and are subject to change.

Is there any free or subsidised training available?

Yes, the “Disability Rights in the Workplace” course is offered free of charge (complimentary). Additionally, JobAccess subsidies may be available. You would need to inquire for more details.

What are JobAccess subsidies?

JobAccess is the national hub for workplace and employment information for people with disability, employers and service providers.

It offers financial support to employers and people with disability to create more inclusive workplaces. The main forms of financial assistance are:

• Employment Assistance Fund (EAF): This fund provides financial help to eligible employers and people with disability to purchase work-related modifications, equipment, and services. This can include special equipment, workplace modifications, or Auslan services.

  To be eligible for the EAF, a person must be an Australian resident, have a disability that has lasted or will last for at least two years, and be working at least eight hours a week in a job that is expected to last for at least 13 weeks.

• Wage Subsidy Scheme: This scheme is designed for businesses that hire eligible job seekers with a disability. An employer may be eligible for a subsidy if they hire a new employee registered with a Disability Employment Services (DES) provider for a job that is for at least 8 hours a week and is expected to be ongoing. The job can be full-time, part-time, or casual.

How to apply for subsidies?

The application process differs depending on the type of subsidy and Hotel Etico can help you with the application:

For the Employment Assistance Fund (EAF):

1. Check your eligibility: Before applying, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria for the EAF.

2. Gather information: You will need details about the employer, the employee with a disability, and the requested equipment, changes, or services.

3. Apply online: Applications are submitted online through the JobAccess Secure portal.

   You can apply if you are an employer, an employee, self-employed, a job seeker, or a service provider.

   A friend, relative, or advocate can also apply on behalf of a person with a disability.

4. Assessment: JobAccess will assess the application, which can take up to 10 working days. A JobAccess adviser may contact you for more information.

5. Approval and purchase: If approved, you can then purchase the items or services. JobAccess will then reimburse the costs. It is important not to purchase anything before receiving written approval.

For the Wage Subsidy Scheme:

To apply for the Wage Subsidy Scheme, employers should contact a local Disability Employment Services (DES) provider.

These providers are experienced in supporting job seekers with disability and can assist businesses with the application process.