Best Email Marketing Strategies for Hospitality Businesses in Australia

Email marketing isn’t extinct. In fact, for hospitality businesses in Australia, it’s the secret weapon separating the fully booked from the forever empty. 

But let’s be honest most hospitality email marketing attempts are either ignored, deleted, or worse, marked as spam. Why? Because they lack strategy.

Let's take care of that. These industry best practices can assist you in creating Australia email campaigns that visitors will want to read and respond to, regardless of whether you're managing a boutique hotel in Melbourne, a luxury resort in Sydney, or a quaint bed and breakfast in Byron Bay.

Personalization

You’ve got data, use it! Personalized hospitality email marketing works like a charm. Studies have found that emails that feel personal get opened about 26% more often. Instead of a generic "Hello there! ", try:

Hey James, ready to enjoy another sunset cocktail at our rooftop bar this evening?

Gallant guests love feeling extra special, and Aussie email campaigns that are personalized take it to the next level and give them that sense of being true VIPs.

✅ Pro Tip: Send targeted offers using guest history. If they stayed in a spa suite previously, send a special spa package on their return visit.

Timing Matters More Than You Might Assume

Send an email at the wrong time, and it is much like offering an upgrade to a guest room after a guest checks out; it serves no purpose.

Industry best practices:

- Mid-week: Tuesday to Thursday mornings—the odds of guests engaging increase when they are sipping coffee and not moping through Mondays or getting ready for the weekend.

- Evening pre-trip reminders: A helpful prompt on hospitality email marketing such as—"Packing for your Gold Coast getaway? Here’s a checklist!" This is helpful without being intrusive.

The Power of FOMO: Scarcity Sells

Ever seen a "Last 2 Rooms Available!" alert and felt a sudden urge to book? That’s FOMO (Fear of Missing Out), and it works like a charm in Australia email campaigns.

Example: “Only 3 ocean-view suites left for the long weekend book now before they’re gone!”

By creating urgency, you drive action. Just don’t fake it, integrity is key.

Stunning Visuals: No One Reads an Ugly Email

Let’s be real: a plain text email isn’t going to sell a dreamy beachfront stay. Industry best practices emphasize visuals. Include:

• High-quality images of your property

• Short, engaging videos (guest testimonials, room tours, etc.)

• Aesthetic design that reflects your brand

People see before they read, so make it count.

Mobile Optimization: Your Emails Shouldn’t Require a Microscope

More than 60% of emails are opened on mobile. If your hospitality email marketing isn’t mobile-friendly, it’s a disaster. Keep it:

✅ Short & scannable

✅ With bold CTAs ("Book Now" shouldn’t require a treasure hunt)

✅ Responsive (emails should look great on any device)

Loyalty Programs: Because Freebies Keep Guests Hooked

A solid hospitality email marketing strategy doesn’t just bring in new guests—it keeps the old ones coming back.

Example: “Anna, you’re just 50 points away from a free night! Want to book your next stay?”

Loyalty emails work wonders for guest retention. People love rewards, and a well-structured program ensures they pick your property over competitors.

The "Unsubscribe" Paradox: Make It Easy, and Fewer Will Leave

A common industry best practice: Don’t make unsubscribing difficult. Ironically, if guests know they can leave anytime, they’re less likely to hit that unsubscribe button. Plus, spam complaints can damage your sender reputation.

🔄 Instead of “Goodbye forever!”, try “Want fewer emails? Adjust your preferences.”

Conclusion

The best hospitality email marketing campaigns are a mix of science and storytelling. With personalization, perfect timing, strong visuals, and strategic offers, your Australia email campaigns can go from ignored to irresistible.

So, are you still sending those boring “Book Now” emails? Or are you ready to master industry best practices and transform your guest engagement? The choice is yours!

FAQ

How often should I send hospitality emails?

Stick to once or twice a month unless you have exclusive offers or event updates.

What is the best subject line strategy?

Keep it short, personalized, and intriguing. Example: "Sarah, an exclusive offer just for you!"

How can I avoid my emails being sent to spam?

Don't use spammy words such as "FREE!", use clean mailing lists, and have a good sender reputation.

Do I need to use emojis in my subject lines?

Yes, but judiciously. Example: "Your beach getaway awaits!" (Friendly, not gushy.)

Should I include user-generated content in my emails?

Yes! Guest reviews and Instagram photos build trust and engagement.