Boost for Tasmanian Tourism Marketing
An additional $1 million will be pumped into marketing Tasmania as a world-class tourist destination over the rest of the financial year, the Minister for Tourism Scott Bacon announced today.
The funding forms part of the Tasmanian Government's initial response to the Tasmanian Access Report, released today.
"Air and sea access to Tasmania is an integral part of our island lifestyle, and essential to tourism and the broader economy," he said.
"This report has provided us with a comprehensive snapshot of not just the current level of air and sea services to and from Tasmania, but proposals on how we can ensure these services remain sustainable into the future.
"It has also highlighted issues facing the sector, like the seasonal nature of our tourism industry, and how we can work to level these peaks and troughs.
"As the report notes, we're currently seeing record flights to and from Tasmania.
"One of the most important things we can do in the short-term is work to fill those seats, to help maintain as many of those additional seats as possible into the future.
"We have already invested in cooperative marketing programs with each of the major airlines, and this additional $1 million for marketing over the next six months will consolidate this work to help drive demand in Tasmania as a destination.
"It will be funded in the Mid-Year Report as part of the Tasmanian Jobs Package, which will be released later this month."
Mr Bacon said the report's recommendations included:
- Additional investment in marketing for tourism and events over the next six months to capitalise on increased air services to Tasmania;
- The appointment of an Access Development Advisor;
- Strengthen support for Brand Tasmania across economic sectors such as agriculture, food, education and events; and
- A partnership approach with airports, airlines, the TT-Line and tourism and industry representatives such as the Tourism Industry Council of Tasmania and the Tasmanian Hospitality Association to ensure the long-term viability of Tasmanian access.
"We're considering each of the recommendations, and will appoint an Access Development Advisor, who can work with stakeholders and airlines on access into the future," he said.
"We recognise the importance of tourism to our economy, and remain committed to supporting the sector into the future.
"Through our support for events such as Dark MOFO, the AFL, the V8 Supercars and others, we are working to deliver a solid calendar of events that give visitors good reason to visit our state over the traditionally quieter, Winter months."
The Access Report can be found at http://www.development.tas.gov.au/economic/resources/publications_and_guides/tasmanian_access_report
Source: Accommodation Association of Australia, 4 December 2012
