Thanks to the Rudd Labor Government's greater emphasis on natural tourism, Victoria's Great Ocean Road and Coastal Wilderness regions will feature prominently in Australia's global tourism marketing campaign as part of Tourism Australia's National Landscapes program.
The National Landscapes program promotes distinctive natural and cultural environments to Tourism Australia's key target market, experience seekers; travellers of all ages who wish to experience new adventures and destinations which enable them to engage with a local culture.
The Minister for Tourism, the Hon Martin Ferguson AM MP, today told a meeting of the two regions' steering committees in Torquay: "Tourism Australia will this year spend more than $80 million on international promotions.
"The National Landscapes program forms an important component of this work and provides a foundation for tourism businesses, local governments and national park authorities to collaborate in developing and enhancing quality experience-based products and infrastructure.
"The Great Ocean Road region encompasses exquisite coastal scenery, mountains, farmland, and rainforests. It of course includes the 12 Apostles, pristine beaches, historic towns, shipwrecks, waterfalls, and wildlife, and offers opportunities to learn about Indigenous people and culture.
"Victoria's eastern Coastal Wilderness region is a rare and untouched region and includes the pristine Croajingolong National Park (a UNESCO World Biosphere-listed area) and provides authentic experiences relating to landscapes, natural history and living culture across four seasons.
The Minister for the Environment, Heritage, and the Arts, the Hon Peter Garrett AM MP, said "These iconic locations are exciting additions to the National Landscapes program providing Australians and the world with a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the stunning scenery, diversity and rich heritage of this part of the world.
"We know that so many people from right around the world come to Australia, and particularly Victoria, to experience the stunning coastline and pristine wilderness as well as the vast network of national parks across the country which will play a vital role in the future health of our tourism.
"The National Landscapes program demonstrates how properly managing and taking care of our environmental and cultural assets can bring enormous long-term economic benefit to these regions and the broader economy."
For further information on the National Landscapes Program, visit www.australia.com.