Positioning Australia’s tourism industry for the future

Consultations are now open on Australia's next national tourism strategy, with industry stakeholders encouraged to have their say on a draft report developed by the Beyond Tourism 2020 Steering Committee.

Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Simon Birmingham urged stakeholders, from local and state governments to peak industry bodies and individual tourism operators to have their say on the future direction of the industry.

"Australia is currently experiencing a tourism boom with record numbers of international travellers flocking to our shores and spending record amounts," Minister Birmingham said.

"We've also seen strong recent growth on the domestic front with more Australians choosing to holiday at home and deciding to get a taste for the diverse and unique experiences on offer around our country.

"With tourism now attracting $136 billion in expenditure each year and employing 1 in 13 Australians, it's vital we keep this momentum going by seizing on new market opportunities and ensuring Australia remains a must-visit destination in an increasingly competitive global tourism market.

"The Beyond 2020 Tourism strategy is an opportunity for Australia to develop a new long-term vision for the industry and address key challenges such as technology development, aviation access, attracting more investment in infrastructure, boosting regional tourism and meeting workforce needs.

"I look forward to hearing the feedback from stakeholders on the Committee's draft report about how we can continue to attract record numbers of visitors and position Australia's tourism industry for the future."

To read the Steering Committee's draft report and to make a submission, visit www.austrade.gov.au/beyond2020. Written submissions close on 8 March 2019.