Australian hotels saw overnight rates rise during winter this year compared with the same period in 2011, according to results retrieved from HotelsCombined’s year-over-year price index.

Byron Bay witnessed the highest increase in prices, recording an 18 percent rise in the average nightly rate.

Cairns encountered a 16 percent increase in the average hotel rate from winter 2011 to winter 2012.

Sydney accommodation costs rose by four percent, while Melbourne saw a five percent rise over 2011 figures.

The research was based on average hotel prices throughout the winter months of June, July and August.

Broome and Adelaide were two major Australian destinations that experienced a decline in hotel rates during this year’s winter, with rates declining by 14 percent and 10 percent respectively.

Meanwhile, Hamilton Island in Queensland managed to maintain its average hotel rates year-on-year.