1909
Richard Schirrmann first has the idea to create a network of jugendherberge (youth hostels)
The first permanent youth hostel, Altena Castle, established in Germany
1919
The German Youth Hostel Association is founded
1939
International Youth Hostel Federation (Hostelling International) founded. The hostelling movement begins in Australia in Victoria and YHA VIC is established
YHA NSW is established
1947
The first hostel owned and operated by YHA opens in Victoria. The Australian Youth Hostels Association is established
YHA SA is established
YHA TAS is established
YHA WA is established. There are 1,618 members and 40 YHA hostels in Australia
YHA QLD is established
1968
YHA membership costs $3
The arrival of the Boeing 747 revolutionises air travel
1976
YHA NT established
1995
More than 3 million YHA/HI members worldwide. As usage of the internet becomes more widespread, YHA Australia launches yha.com.au
1997
Sydney Central YHA opens
2000
Grampians YHA Eco Hostel opens, designed and developed with sustainability in mind
Japanese language version of yha.com.au launched
2005
Eco Beach YHA Apollo Bay Hostel opens, designed and developed with sustainability in mind
Mandarin language version of yha.com.au launched
The arrival of the Airbus A380
2009
100 Years of Hostelling, the opening of Sydney Harbour YHA, Melbourne Central YHA and Brisbane City YHA. Korean language version of yha.com.au to be launched