Tasmania’s tourism industry is steering towards a future brimming with potential, as showcased at the recent Tourism Industry Council Tasmania conference in Launceston. The event highlighted the first progress report of the 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy, a comprehensive plan that sets the course for sustainable growth in the state’s tourism sector over the next decade.
Premier and Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Jeremy Rockliff, took the stage to unveil the 2030 Strategy Action Plan Progress Report. His opening address was a rallying cry for the industry, emphasising Tasmania’s commitment to maintaining its status as a year-round destination while fostering sustainable visitation.
The tourism and hospitality sector is not just another industry in Tasmania; it’s a vital component of the state’s economic engine. With a history spanning over 130 years, the sector continues to be a cornerstone for communities across the state. Each year, tourism injects an impressive $3.6 billion into the Tasmanian economy, supporting nearly 43,000 jobs.
Despite the sector’s resilience, the recent years have been anything but smooth sailing. The combination of a global pandemic and challenging economic conditions tested the industry’s mettle. However, the progress report delivered at the conference suggests that the industry is not just bouncing back but is doing so with a renewed sense of purpose and innovation.
At the heart of the 2030 Strategy is the goal to grow Tasmania’s visitor economy in a manner that safeguards the unique qualities that make the state a world-class destination. The strategy is a collaborative effort between the government and industry stakeholders, ensuring that growth is balanced with sustainability.
One of the significant achievements in the past year has been the investment of $1.3 million in Visitor Experience Training. This initiative focuses on delivering non-accredited training in areas that have traditionally been underserved, providing workers with the skills needed to enhance the visitor experience across the state. This investment is not just about upskilling the workforce; it’s about enriching the overall visitor experience, making Tasmania a more attractive destination for both domestic and international travellers.
Business events have also been a focal point of the strategy, with 39 events secured, expected to pump $28.6 million into the Tasmanian economy over the next three years. These events are more than just gatherings; they are opportunities to showcase Tasmania’s offerings to a broader audience, fostering connections and encouraging repeat visitation.
Investment in new tourism offerings is another critical area of focus. Over the past year, up to $20.6 million in loans have been approved for 22 tourism businesses. These funds are being used to stimulate investment in new and innovative offerings that will attract visitors and keep them coming back for more. This is about more than just creating new attractions; it’s about ensuring that Tasmania remains competitive in a rapidly evolving global tourism market.
One of the highlights of the past year was the state’s largest Off Season campaign, which featured over 600 offers from operators across Tasmania. This campaign not only attracted visitors during the traditionally quieter months but also demonstrated the industry’s adaptability and creativity in finding new ways to draw tourists.
Sustainability is a recurring theme in the 2030 Strategy, and the government is backing this commitment with tangible support. The Tasmanian Government is assisting businesses in reducing their emissions, ensuring that the growth in visitor numbers does not come at the expense of the environment. This approach is a nod to the growing demand from tourists for environmentally responsible travel options, positioning Tasmania as a leader in sustainable tourism.
Looking ahead, the Tasmanian Government has set ambitious targets as part of its 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future. By 2030, the aim is to welcome 1.6 million interstate visitors and 400,000 international visitors annually. These figures are not just numbers on a page; they represent the potential for economic growth, job creation, and increased prosperity for communities across the state.
The conference in Launceston brought together around 450 industry representatives and tourism and hospitality operators, all eager to contribute to the sector’s bright future. The sense of optimism and forward-thinking was palpable, with discussions centred on how to build on the progress made so far and tackle the challenges that lie ahead.
The Tasmanian tourism industry is at a pivotal moment, with the 2030 Strategy providing a clear roadmap for the future. The progress made in the past year is a testament to the industry’s resilience and adaptability, and there is every reason to believe that the sector will continue to thrive in the years to come.
As the 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy continues to roll out, it’s clear that Tasmania’s tourism industry is not content to rest on its laurels. The state’s unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and innovative spirit ensures that it will remain a top destination for travellers from around the world. The focus now is on ensuring that this growth is sustainable, inclusive, and beneficial for all Tasmanians.
The journey towards 2030 is well underway, and if the progress so far is any indication, Tasmania’s tourism industry is set to reach new heights. The strategies and initiatives currently in place are laying a strong foundation for a future where Tasmania continues to shine as a premier destination, attracting visitors from near and far while preserving the very qualities that make it so special.
The 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy is not just a plan; it’s a vision for the future of Tasmania’s tourism industry. As the state continues to build on the progress made so far, the focus remains on creating a sustainable and prosperous future for all. The road ahead is full of opportunities, and with the right strategies in place, Tasmania’s tourism industry is poised to thrive well into the next decade.
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