The Australian Government will deliver on its election commitment by investing a further $46 million over four years in Australia's tourism future, as confirmed in the 2010-11 Mid-Year Economic and Fiscal Outlook released by the Treasurer today.
Tourism is a significant part of Australia's economy; it contributes 2.6 per cent a year to GDP and employs almost a million Australians both directly and indirectly. Despite the strong growth of Australia's economy over the past decade, Australia’s $33 billion tourism industry has lost market share both domestically and internationally.
That is why the Australian Government is committing $40 million over four years to extend the TQUAL Tourism Grants program and $6 million over four years toward the implementation of the National Long Term Tourism Strategy.
Tourism experiences on the Great Ocean Road and in Tropical North Queensland, Margaret River and the Barossa Valley as well as many other tourism areas have been developed and expanded with the support of Australian Government tourism grants.
The revised TQUAL Grant program will include matching funding on a competitive, merit based process for both small scale and large tourism projects right across Australia.
By providing a particular focus on indigenous economic development TQUAL Grants will support jobs and businesses while building on the unique experiences offered by our Indigenous and cultural heritage. Grant applications are expected to open in the first quarter of 2011.
The National Long Term Tourism Strategy marks an unprecedented partnership agreement with industry and state and territory governments.
Progress to date includes:
- national harmonisation of Responsible Service of Alcohol Certification;
- review of regulatory barriers to investment and regulatory reform;
- establishment of a Tourism Quality Council;
- hosting the inaugural state of the industry “Tourism Directions Conference” on November 15 at Parliament House.
The additional funding will assist Australia's tourism industry to reclaim market share by improving tourism product quality and accreditation; developing a skilled and innovative workforce; unlocking investment in infrastructure; and making the most of our natural competitive advantages, such as our landscapes and Indigenous and cultural heritage.
The Australian Government will continue to work collaboratively with States and Territories and the private sector to strengthen the tourism industry for the future.