Tourism to benefit from Federal Budget

Tourism is one of the big winners in the Federal Budget, according to the accommodation industry.  

Speaking on behalf of the industry, the Accommodation Association of Australia said it was delighted that the Abbott Government has shown faith in tourism by rejecting drastic recommendations made by the National Commission of Audit to halve funding for Tourism Australia and integrate into a government department.  

"The accommodation industry is set to receive a tremendous boost from the news that Tourism Australia will be retained as Australia's dedicated international tourism marketing organisation with its funding maintained," said the Association's Chief Executive Officer, Richard Munro.  

"While other sectors were targeted for cuts by the Government, the Budget outcome is clear recognition of the importance of tourism to the Australian economy.

"It enables Tourism Australia to continue to carry out the valuable task of increasing visitor numbers to Australia.

"The support for tourism from the Abbott Government will directly benefit all tourism accommodation businesses, including major international hotels in Australia's capital cities, small motels in regional areas and B&Bs.

"At a time when Australia is facing increased competition from major Asian destinations for overseas visitors, the Budget announcements about Tourism Australia is welcome news that should set the industry up for growth resulting in more jobs for Australians.

"The commitment to Tourism Australia has the potential to offset any drop in consumer sentiment which may occur in the coming weeks and months."  

Source:  Accommodation Association of Australia - 14th May 2014