Tourism Driving Tasmania’s Economy

5 March 2009

The Minister for Tourism, Michelle O’Byrne, today said the State Government was committed to investing in the tourism sector which was continuing to deliver economic benefits to Tasmania.

“Tourism is a major contributor to the Tasmanian economy, and in turn, our local communities.

“Tourism dollars flow throughout our regional economies, and support jobs not just in hospitality, but across all other sectors.

“Bringing people to our State injects money into our towns and cities, creating investment and employment opportunities.

“The most recent figures show tourism directly contributes 4.7 per cent to Gross State Product and supports about 6 per cent of total Tasmanian employment.

“During the past decade, we have seen strong tourism growth in Tasmania, and this will continue to be supported by the State Government into the future.

“Our new autumn marketing campaign, which has a media value of more than $2.9 million, makes it one of the biggest seasonal tourism marketing campaigns in the past 10 years.”

Ms O’Byrne said destination marketing was pivotal in giving confidence to the tourism industry.

“Projects like the Doherty family’s new $30 million Inner Collins development, which got underway last week, is just one example of the industry’s commitment to new tourism experiences and confidence in our future.

“These investments are another important factor in keeping Tasmania’s economy moving, demonstrating that the benefits of a strong tourism industry go well beyond simply bringing tourism dollars into the State.”

Ms O’Byrne said the State Government’s plans to establish the Bay of Fires National Park, would provide a further opportunity to highlight and develop the natural attractions for which Tasmania is internationally renown.

“With the Bay of Fires already named the number one place to visit in 2009 by Lonely Planet, the State Government will commence the statutory process required to declare a new national park.

“This builds on our efforts to ensure visitors to the Bay of Fires already enjoy a quality experience, having invested $150,000 to develop an interpretation site.

“Tasmania’s strong tourism performance in the past 10 years clearly demonstrates the strength of the State Government’s tourism plan, which is a plan that recognises the critical relationship between effective marketing, improved air and sea access to our State, and high quality experiences that exceed visitors’ expectations,” Ms O’Byrne said.

Further information: Rohan Wade (03) 6336 2443 or 0417 051 255