Fee rises threatens Victoria's outdoor tourism

Up to 450 Victorian outdoor tourism operators are concerned for the survival of their business following the Victorian Government's decision to increase licensing fees for access to the State's national parks.
Commencing earlier this month, 'nature-based' tourism operators saw licensing fees double from $55 to $110 a year as well as their fee per person rise from $1.10 to $2.40, according to Melbourne newspaper The Herald Sun.
A local operator owner told the newspaper that he was concerned the fees would jeopardise his business.
Go West Tours Director Terry Smit said the rising costs put his business at risk, stating "tourism is getting nothing. We will have no other alternative other than to increase our fees to customers."
Victorian Tourism Industry Council Chief Executive Todd Blake added that increased fees could prevent bush walking and mountain bike tours from accessing parks and public land.
Blake added "nature-based tourism is an under-promoted sector but the regulatory environment isn't helping."