Trade Minister Andrew Robb promises Budget boost for Tourism Australia, despite recommendation to cut funding

The National Commission of Audit report earlier this month recommended halving funding for the nation’s peak tourism body, saying its benefits aren’t obvious.

“We’re actually increasing the budget for Tourism Australia because it’s one of the drivers of prosperity,” Mr Robb told reporters at the Australian Tourism Exchange trade expo in Cairns.

“That’s our philosophy - don’t put a leg rope or a road block in front of any of the things we’re good at, but at the same time live within our means as a government.”

But he said the government ultimately wanted industry spending to one day replace federal funding for the sector.

“We are doing all sorts of things to give the opportunity for tourism to maximise the potential that is out there, so that we can replace the role of government spending in driving growth,” he said.

Mr Robb, who didn’t say exactly how much TA’s budget would be increased by, said an extra $50 million would be pumped into a grant scheme that helps small operators sell themselves in international markets.

After the audit report was released, the Tourism and Transport Forum said cutting funding to Tourism Australia would dramatically affect business, local jobs and investment prospects for Australia.

The Gimuy Walubara Yidinji dancers perform at the 2014 Australian Tourism Exchange, a tourism expo taking place in Cairns this week. Picture: Brendan Radke Source: News Corp Australia

Source: Herald Sun - 12 May 14