DOMESTIC tourism is set to get a boost from an initiative encouraging Australians to holiday at home rather than choosing to travel overseas.
Tourism Minister Norman Moore said a $16 million, three year program would be undertaken with support from the Federal, State and Territory governments and the tourism industry.
“The domestic tourism initiative will receive $8 million from the Federal, $4 million from the State and Territory governments, and $4 million from the tourism industry,” Mr Moore said.
“Domestic tourism makes up about 75 per cent of Australian tourism value, generating about $50 billion each year and employing one out of every nine Australian workers.
“It produces ten per cent of our gross domestic product and earns about $16 billion each year in foreign exchange for Australia.
“While recognising and endorsing the importance of competition between the states in this market, some elements require a co-operative approach between all governments and industry.”
Mr Moore said the initiative would include marketing initiatives focused on regional tourism, new market development and marketing to encourage the travel industry to sell Australian holidays.
