Major push to get more business events into fire-affected regions

Local businesses and event planners are being urged to hold major conferences and events in Australia this year, under a new push by the Morrison Government to support Australia’s tourism industry.

Federal Tourism Minister Simon Birmingham said Tourism Australia’s Event Here This Year campaign was aimed at encouraging organisations to provide a much-needed boost to the local tourism industry by choosing Australia as the destination for their lucrative events.

“Business events are one of the most crucial sectors of our tourism industry delivering huge economic benefits to communities around Australia,” Minister Birmingham said.

“However, the sector has taken a hit in recent months with increases in cancelled events as well as a reduction in international event bookings, even in regions that haven’t been affected by the recent bushfires.

“This campaign is a call to all of those Australian businesses and organisations out there who are yet to book in meetings, their annual conference or exhibitions, to rally behind our tourism industry and choose Australia for their event this year.

“The fact is, many fire-affected regions still have the facilities to host both small and large-scale events, and this campaign encourages organisations to do their research and look at what options might be available for their event right here in Australia.

“This is a huge opportunity for Aussie businesses to support communities across Australia, whether it is those in fire-affected regions or other communities across Australia who are also feeling the pain from less visitors.

“With one in thirteen Australian jobs related to tourism and hospitality, the sector desperately needs our help to protect local jobs and help communities get back on their feet.”

Assistant Minister for Regional Tourism Jonno Duniam said the Event Here This Year campaign was supported by the Morrison Government’s $76 million National Bushfire Recovery Fund.

“The Event Here This Year campaign will run in parallel with Tourism Australia’s Holiday Here This Year campaign, which was announced last week,” Assistant Minister Duniam said.

“This is a shout-out to all businesses, organisations and event managers to look no further than right here, Australia, for whatever they might be planning in coming weeks, months and years.

“When it comes to events or conferences, you can’t get a better host than Australia, our natural backdrop is unbeatable and our hospitality is second to none. What’s more, you can help our tourism industry get back on its feet in the wake of these devastating fires — this is a win-win.”

For more information on the campaign and how businesses can get involved, visit: www.australia.com/businessevents.