Victorian Government commits $24 million for tourism

The Victorian Government has announced new funding of $24 million over the next four years to increase regional tourism, grow international markets and maximise the potential of the growing China market.

Outlining the budget funding, Victorian Minister for Tourism and Major Events Louise Asher said Victorian Government recognised the importance of tourism and that increased funding to these programs would deliver long-term economic benefits to the state.

Minister Asher stated "the Coalition Government is committed to building for the growth of the state, and an important factor is driving economic activity, productivity and job creation.

"In order to do that, we have provided an extra $2 million per year over the next four years to support three key programs."

The programs are:

Regional Tourism this initiative will increase the number of visitors to regional Victoria and increase the contribution of tourism to the regional economy.

Grow Victoria's International Markets this initiative seeks to increase the number of international visitors to Victoria and the associated economic benefits of tourism through developing targeted industry partnerships and marketing activities, including co-operative airline opportunities focussed on fast growing markets particularly in Asia.

Increase Victoria's presence in the China market this initiative will build on the momentum created by recent trade missions to China and further support the implementation of the Coalition Government's China Tourism Strategy.

Minister Asher added "the ... Government is committed to promoting the unique attractions of regional Victoria and this new funding allows for the continued focus on developing and promoting key events and integrated marketing activities that will increase regional dispersal and economic benefit to the regions.

"Central to the growth of our international markets is airline attraction, and this funding will develop targeted industry partnerships and increase marketing activities, including co-operative airline opportunities in our high growth markets, particularly in Asia.

"The funding also ensures that Victoria continues to achieve greater success in attracting more Chinese visitors, which boosts the Victorian economy."

Minister Asher said activities such as increased marketing in China, a greater focus on enhancing the experience of visitors and addressing the supply side issues, will strengthen Victoria's long-term commitment in this market.

Tourism is a significant economic driver for Victoria, contributing $15.9 billion to the economy and providing for 204,000 direct and indirect jobs.

19th April 2013 - NEW CAMPAIGN TO BOOST TOURISM IN REGIONAL VICTORIA

31st May 2012 - TOURISM PLAN TO ADDRESS REGIONAL LABOUR AND SKILLS SHORTAGES IN VICTORIA