YHA Australia launches MODE by YHA
YHA Australia has announced MODE by YHA, a new hospitality concept designed to reflect how modern travellers live, work and connect, while shaping a new direction for experience-led stays. With over 85 years in the sector, YHA Australia has built a portfolio of socially connected accommodation across cities, coastal and nature-based locations, continually evolving with changing traveller expectations.
The first MODE by YHA property in Sydney will feature 137 rooms across King, Queen, Family and co-living categories, all with private ensuites. Shared facilities will include a 10-metre climbing wall, microbrewery, co-working areas and communal dining spaces designed to encourage interaction. A key feature of the development is The Forum, a flexible amphitheatre space for dining, work, events and performances throughout the day. The concept reflects the growing shift towards experience-led travel, with Skyscanner’s 2026 Global Gen Z Research showing 47% of young travellers are motivated to travel abroad to meet new people.
Paul McGrath, CEO of YHA Australia said: “At YHA, we’ve always believed travel is fundamentally about connection, but MODE by YHA represents a more ambitious expression of that idea and where we see the future of hospitality heading. We’re seeing a clear shift away from transactional accommodation toward experience-led stays that foster belonging, flexibility and meaningful connection. MODE by YHA responds to a growing gap between traditional hotels, hostels and co-working spaces, creating a flexible social environment designed around the changing modes of the modern traveller.”
MODE by YHA is scheduled to open in March 2027, with bookings opening mid-year.
Member snapshot
YHA Australia own & operate a diverse range of properties across Australia offering private and co-living accommodation with facilities such as pools, cafe’s and rooftop bars. Find out more
Membership type: Full
Country: Australia
