Tasmanian hotel visitor numbers falling

Figures released by the Tasmanian Hospitality Association show the state's hotel occupancy rates have fallen by 2.7 per cent in the past year.

The monthly survey found average hotel occupancy in Tasmania for the 12 months to May 30 was 67.69 per cent.

In May, occupancy rates fell by almost 3 per cent across Tasmania.

The North-West experienced a 7 per cent decline - taking the region's occupancy levels below 40 per cent for the month.

The North had a 2.64 per cent drop, while figures from the South were marginally down.

Tasmanian Hospitality Association general manager Steve Old said room rates went up by $2.79 in May.

''This data backs up what I have said for a long time . . . our regional areas are doing it extremely hard and they need to get more support from the government for their efforts,'' he said.

''How can we expect venues to train staff, maintain and improve venues through upgrades and refurbishments when their occupancy rates are on average under 40 per cent?

''It is a positive to see more flights coming into our state later this year but I hope for some venues it is not too late for them and their businesses.''

The survey was conducted with THA member accommodation hotels.

Source: The Examiner, 2 July 2012