A Rebecca White Labor Government will invest an additional $15 million over three years to secure international flights from Hobart International Airport to destinations including New Zealand and Asia.
The commitment comes as part of Tasmanian Labor’s $97.8 million Tourism, Hospitality and Events Package to progress key tourism projects around Tasmania, maximising our potential as a major drawcard, creating secure jobs and supporting workers in our visitor economy.
As an island state, Labor understands the importance of maintaining and enhancing Tasmania’s access through our ports – both sea and air – to welcome visitors here and increase the value of our visitor economy.
That’s why a Labor government will provide an additional $15 million to roll out initiatives identified in Tasmania’s 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy and the Tasmanian Hospitality Industry 2030 Plan.
We also recognise the need to bring new products to market, which is why we will deliver a $50 million no-interest Visitor Economy Infrastructure and Innovation Loan Scheme to help operators make improvements to their businesses.
Our plan includes additional funding for Tourism Tasmania for destination marketing, supporting more women into leadership roles and we have also committed to not introducing the visitor tax promised by Jeremy Rockliff’s Liberals.
Labor will also invest an additional $8.5 million into our hospitality sector, with more funds for the excellent Great Customer Experience Program, mental health support and training in hospitality and tourism.
And we will invest an extra $21.6 million in events, with an Events Attraction and Support Fund to give long-term certainty for existing events like Mona Foma, the Taste of Summer, Festivale and Party in the Paddock.
With the tourism industry contributing $2.59 billion to the economy each year and hospitality contributing $747 million, a Labor Government will help them to thrive through a range of programs and investment in the Tasmanian brand.
Under a Labor Government, the Premier will also serve as Tourism Minister – reflecting the importance of our world-class industry.
It’s time for a better future. Labor is proud of Tasmania’s reputation as a visitor destination and a Labor Government will provide the support and investment needed for our visitor economy to thrive.
Rebecca White
Tasmanian Labor Leader
