Tourism group questions Federal Government commitment to regional tourism

Australian Regional Tourism Network (ARTN) Chairman David Sheldon is questioning the Federal Government's commitment to doubling overnight expenditure by 2020, citing the new Government's lack of engagement with regional Australia's peak body, a body that represents a large cross sector of industry participants.

Sheldon told Australasian Leisure Management that "prior to the Federal election (we) had a fantastic working relationship with both sides of Government.

"The then shadow Minister was in constant contact with the Network familiarising himself with issues of the tourism Industry in regional Australia ... this was greatly appreciated."

However, the Federal election and the Federal Government's mixed messages regarding the portfolio's responsibilities, the ARTN is concerned that the relationship is taking one step forward and two steps back.

The Australian Regional Tourism Network has recently made contact with four ministerial offices that relate to regional tourism but the reponse, Sheldon commented "can only be describes politely as being 'duckshoved'.

"Regional tourism stakeholders are confused by the new portfolio arrangements, concerned at the direction for Tourism Australia to withdraw from domestic marketing, and in many cases angry that their substantial efforts in applying in good faith for the rigorous Round Two Tourism Industry Regional Development grants (TIRF) has been trashed."

The ARTN highlight that it was not that long ago that both sides of Government were "spruiking" the contribution regional tourism would make in attaining the Government's 2020 goal.

Sheldon added "the new Federal Government now seems to forget that regional Australia contributes over 50% to overnight expenditure and thus plays a vital role in doubling the expenditure by 2020."

A disappointed Sheldon continue "the Network has membership the length and breadth of this great nation. Unlike other metropolitan based associations with a few large partners our members are made up of Regional and Government Agencies, Visitor Information Centres, Regional Tourism Organisations, Local Tourist Associations and operators."

The Australian Regional Tourism Network represents tourism in regional Australia with programs and platforms to enhance the development of tourism and to assist the Government in attaining their tourism goals.

Sheldon concluded "at present we feel as if we are playing musical chairs with the powers that be."

Sheldon is encouraging all regional councils, regional tourism organisations, visitor information centres and regional operators to contact the Australian Regional Tourism Network, and both their Federal and State Members with their concerns.

For more information contact David Sheldon, Chair, Australian Regional Tourism Network on 0428 482 778, E: chair@artn.com.au, www.artn.com.au