PRESS RELEASE

September 25, 2025

New application to help travellers with disabilities book hotels unveiled in Bali

BALI, 25 September 2025 – A new tool designed to make tourism more inclusive was launched in Bali today. The Access Indonesia application enables hotels and accommodation providers to highlight their accessibility features online, from arrival and parking to dining and guest facilities, making it easier for travellers with disabilities to plan their trips.

The initiative is delivered by Katalis, a government-backed Indonesia-Australia economic cooperation program, in collaboration with Cross Hotels & Resorts, a leading boutique hotel management company, and Bali Buddies, a popular travel platform.

With millions of international arrivals each year, Australian holidaymakers remain a key market for Bali. According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, nearly 700,000 Australians use a mobility aid, such as a wheelchair or walking frame, highlighting the importance of clear and accessible travel information.

“Travel should be about experiences, not barriers. The “Access Indonesia” application gives hotels the tools to open their doors wider, so every traveller, no matter their ability, can enjoy Bali with confidence. We invite every hotel in Bali and beyond to give it a try and see how simple steps toward accessibility can make a big difference,” said Karlie Cummins, CEO, Bali Buddies.

The Access Indonesia application not only benefits travellers with disabilities but also supports families, older visitors, and international tourists, enhancing Bali’s reputation as a welcoming destination for all.

“Access Indonesia is just the beginning. Making tourism truly inclusive requires commitment, collaboration and continuous improvement. By starting here, we’re helping hotels see accessibility not only as the right thing to do, but also as smart business that delivers real value, while contributing to inclusive economic growth between Indonesia and Australia,” said Paul Bartlett, Director, Katalis.

The Access Indonesia application is now available for download through https://iacepakatalis.org/en/activities/increasing-access-for-travellers-with-a-mobility-disability-to-bali.


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About Katalis

The Indonesia-Australia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (IA-CEPA) Economic Cooperation Program Katalis (Katalis) is a unique, five-year (2020-2025) government-backed business development program unlocking the vast potential of economic partnership between Australia and Indonesia. Katalis was established under the IA-CEPA and complements other Australian development programs with a commercially oriented, bilateral approach that prioritises gender equality and social inclusion.

Media contact

Ms Adhi Fitri Dinastiar | +62 822 2685 4874 | adhi.dinastiar@iacepa-katalis.org

Our goal is to maximise IA-CEPA benefits for Indonesia and Australia: improved market access, increased two-way trade and investment, and inclusive economic growth in Indonesia.

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© Copyright IA-CEPA ECP Katalis

Our goal is to maximise IA-CEPA benefits for Indonesia and Australia: improved market access, increased two-way trade and investment, and inclusive economic growth in Indonesia.

Subscribe to our newsletter

© Copyright IA-CEPA ECP Katalis

Our goal is to maximise IA-CEPA benefits for Indonesia and Australia: improved market access, increased two-way trade and investment, and inclusive economic growth in Indonesia.

Subscribe to our newsletter

© Copyright IA-CEPA ECP Katalis

Our goal is to maximise IA-CEPA benefits for Indonesia and Australia: improved market access, increased two-way trade and investment, and inclusive economic growth in Indonesia.

Subscribe to our newsletter

© Copyright IA-CEPA ECP Katalis