Quest Apartment Hotels has been awarded the prestigious Franchisor Excellence in Equality, Sustainability and Governance award at the inaugural Franchise Industry Awards (FIA) held in Sydney.

The award recognises Quest’s outstanding commitment to social impact, environmental responsibility, and inclusive governance across its property network in Australia.

David Mansfield, Managing Director, The Ascott Limited Australasia, said the recognition is a proud moment for the brand and a testament to the people behind it.

“At Quest, we believe everyone deserves a place to be themselves—whether that’s our guests, our team members, or the communities we serve. That belief underpins everything we do, from the way we build our rooms to the partnerships we choose and the way we show up in the world.”

“This award reflects the deep commitment across our entire franchise network to not only meet ESG standards but to live them. From planting trees and repurposing furniture to creating inclusive spaces and supporting young cancer patients with accommodation, we’re proving that doing the right thing is also good business.”

Key ESG initiatives that contributed to Quest’s national recognition include:

Hotels for Trees – empowering guests to make a choice and get involved, reducing emissions and supporting reforestation.
Project Net Zero – repurposing hotel furniture through a First Nations-led social enterprise, diverting waste from landfill.
Soap Aid – donating repurposed soap bars to improve hygiene access in disadvantaged communities.
Accessible Accommodation Accreditation – 87 Quest properties independently accredited to meet diverse accessibility needs.
Partnerships with Foodbank and Sony Foundation – offering free accommodation and volunteer support to national charities.

Mansfield said Quest’s approach to ESG is not a campaign or tick-box exercise—it’s built into the DNA of the brand.

“We don’t just want to be a place where people stay – we want to be part of the solution. Whether it’s offering period products in-room, supporting inclusive sport through the Cronulla Sharks partnership, or inviting guests to make a simple choice with a big Impact, we’re leading with purpose.”

“This award belongs to every franchise partner and team member who shows up each day with a commitment to doing good business in a better way. I couldn’t be prouder.”

The FIA, hosted by the Franchise Council of Australia, recognises excellence in a sector that contributes $135 billion annually to the Australian economy and supports over 73,000 small businesses nationwide.

About Quest:
Quest Apartment Hotels (Quest) is a purpose-led accommodation provider specialising in effortless stays for 36+ years. Established in 1988, Quest operates via a business-format franchise model, with 160+ metropolitan, regional and suburban locations throughout Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and the UK. With 120+ properties domestically, Quest ensures guests can experience both urban convenience and regional charm across the country. Guests are treated to a uniquely local-infused stay courtesy of Quest’s passionate local business owners and team members.

Quest is a member of The Ascott Limited (Ascott), a Singaporean, leading international-lodging owner-operator that defines global living through a diversified portfolio of serviced apartments, hotels and co-living properties. Ascott boasts a 30+ year industry track record in more than 170 cities and over 30 countries through its award-winning brands Ascott, Citadines, Citadines Connect, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, lyf, Préférence, Vertu, Harris, Fox, Yello and POP! that enjoy recognition worldwide.

Ascott is a wholly-owned subsidiary of CapitaLand Limited (CapitaLand), one of Asia’s largest real estate companies headquartered and listed in Singapore.

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