The Victorian tourism industry has welcomed last night’s Federal Budget initiatives.
“Given the impact of drought, recent bushfires, higher fuel prices and higher interest rates, the measures announced in the Budget will provide a boost to tourism”, says VTIC Chairman Jeremy Johnson.
“The Budget delivers $193.3 million for tourism over the next four years, with the most important feature being ongoing funding for Tourism Australia at the increased levels committed to in the Tourism White Paper.
“This funding will deliver greater certainty for tourism businesses, more tourists, more revenue for the Australian economy and for communities in rural, regional and urban Australia, and many more job opportunities for young Australians.
“Combined with major initiatives such as four year funding for the Australian Tourism Development Program and an ongoing funding boost for Tourism Australia to continue its impressive work marketing Australia to a global audience, this represents a strong package of measures.
“Tourism Minister Fran Bailey also deserves congratulations for encouraging tourism in drought affected areas with a new $10 million tourism initiative over the next two years - The Australian Tourism Development Programme (ATDP) will receive additional funding to assist drought affected communities, with $5.0 million in 2007-08 and $5.0 million in 2008-09.
“The $10 million boost to the MCG National Museum of Sport will underpin Melbourne’s status as the nation’s sporting events capital.
“The overall macroeconomic settings laid down in the Budget, including a strong surplus, tax relief and infrastructure spending, will also underpin a better climate for the tourism industry”, says Mr Johnson.
Background - what is VTIC
The Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) is the peak policy council for the Victorian tourism industry, which represents key industry associations and operators, providing one united industry voice. |
