Basically it means if you provide fixed universal power outlets, almost anything requiring any voltage could be plugged in.

Universal adaptors ONLY allow for a differences in plug and outlet shape.  They DO NOT adjust voltage, frequency or any other aspect of the power.  So, if the power is inappropriate for the device being plugged in.........almost anything could go wrong.

The possible issues include;

• A guest's item being damaged - imagine causing a guest to lose all their critical business data from their laptop?
• The guest who plugged in a device could be injured
• A fire could be started

We all love to provide guests with everything we can to improve their stay but universal power outlets is one item we cannot provide and I'm sure you will agree the risks are just not worth it.  There is also the other factor being that it's against the law.

Today the solution is pretty easy - forget about traditional power outlets and go with the new default standard for charging gadgets - USB.

You can install power outlets that have USB ports too.

You can cost effectively retrofit power outlets at desk height with USB only or a combination of USB and power.

Make sure your clock radio has a USB Port for charging devices.

If you provide a Connectivity Panel, make sure it has a USB port for charging too.

International and domestic guests will be thrilled by all the charging options you provide them.

If you want to go down the traditional power outlet option, you can still provide a universal travel adapter - make sure it's approved - it needs to meet Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 3122:2005.  If it is approved, it will have a fixed 'single state' Australian plug that goes in the outlet and the universal component may be 'single state' or adjustable to accommodate multiple plug types.

Keep in mind, the guest needs to ensure that whatever they plug in can handle Australian power.  These days many laptops and other devices with transformers can cope but the guest should always check.  Most small personal grooming items like hair dryers, hair straighteners CANNOT cope and will at the very least be seriously damaged if not cause injury to who ever plugged it in and even start a fire.

Highly unlikely.  The issues of personal and property safety are too serious to contemplate allowing universal power outlets.   We can assure you, if there is any changes we will keep across them and keep you informed.  We are in regular contact with NSW Fair Trading Energy and Utilities Unit as it is their role is to enforce the law, they can appraise us of any changes.