5. Enabling a prosperous and resilient visitor economy
   1. This chapter considers the key tourism policy and sectoral management issues that the Committee heard need addressing to enable the sector’s sustainable growth and maximise its potential. This includes how well the sector collaborates and communicates to manage supply and demand; the importance of data; workforce, transport and infrastructure issues; and climate and disaster resilience and insurance.
   2. The Committee notes that some of these challenges – like workforce and transport – are not specific to the tourism sector, and they impact across the economy. They are often complex problems, solutions for which go beyond the scope of this inquiry. However, the report nonetheless highlights them to provide a complete picture of challenges facing the sector. The chapter concludes with the Committee’s views on these matters and a series of recommendations.

Improving collaboration

5.3Chapter 2 described the complex ecosystem that is the tourism sector and noted the importance of all parts working seamlessly to deliver quality visitor experiences. This requires strong collaboration and effective governance structures. This section outlines stakeholder views on current collaboration and suggestions for improvement.

‘Supply-side’ collaboration – enabling industry growth and development

5.4Many witnesses stressed that it is local operators and officials who understand their products and operating environment best, with the inference that federal, state and territory government agencies should listen more to local voices in addressing industry challenges such as infrastructure needs, transport access to feed into development of policy and programs. Dr Gabby Walters, Associate Professor in Tourism at the University of Queensland observed:

Tourism is best managed at the local level because you've got people who know the area, know their market and know their product.[1]

5.5Ms Alina Bain, Chief Executive Officer at the Launceston Chamber of Commerce also stressed the need to have local industry voices at the table to develop strategies and solve problems:

I say to government and to council, invite industry into the room … [T]here may be solutions that you're unable to think of, or maybe it's not for government to provide that solution. The other piece to that is that if you bring industry and business to the table sooner rather than later they can see what's coming down the pipeline and they can gear up for it.[2]

5.6Ms Bain also expressed frustration about the ‘vast number of strategies, policies and plans in the state government’ and how it is unreasonable to expect small tourism operators to work their way through this complexity.[3]

5.7The Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government submitted that the greatest impact on Australia’s visitor economy would come from a nationally agreed approach to tourism, in which the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), Tourism Australia (TA), and state and territory tourism organisations are aligned. The ACT Government suggested such areas would include promotion to priority markets, investment in research, and in the development of specific products and experiences tailored to international markets.[4]

5.8‘Comprehensive Collaboration’ is the first policy pillar of the Australian Government’s THRIVE 2030 national strategy. The ‘THRIVE 2030 collaboration framework’ cuts across three levels of government, and provides for industry input through an implementation advisory group and two technical working groups. THRIVE 2030 notes the complexity of collaboration at the regional level due to the large number of local government agencies across Australia. To address this, it states it will leverage the Regional Development Australia (RDA) network to facilitate regional engagement.[5]

‘Demand side’ (destination marketing) collaboration

5.9Evidence received regarding current arrangements for collaboration on marketing is considered in the next section on destination marketing.

Destination marketing

5.10Due to the competitive nature of markets for international and domestic visitation, well-resourced destination marketing organisations (DMOs) are critical to position Australia as a desirable choice. This section of the report considers the roles the many DMOs in Australia includes the reflections of inquiry participants on Australia’s national DMO, TA, and its most recent marketing campaign.

The complicated ‘destination marketing’ landscape

5.11There are multiple levels of DMO’s in Australia. As outlined in Chapter 2, TA is the national DMO, and focusses on international visitor attraction with domestic marketing being ‘within the remit of the States and Territories’.[6] The objects and functions of TA are outlined in the Tourism Australia Act 2004 (Cth), which emphasise TA’s destination marketing role to drive overseas and domestic visitation.[7] There are also objects to foster a sustainable tourism industry, increase the economic benefits to Australia from tourism, and research, reporting, and communicating to the tourism industry.

5.12Under the Act, the Minister for Tourism can give direction to TA regarding its functions via a Statement of Expectation. In addition to reinforcing its focus on marketing, the current Statement of Expectation (dated 11 July 2014) directs TA to support non-marketing issues including product development, tax and regulation, developing tourism infrastructure, and support tourism investment.[8] However, the Committee noted from TA’s evidence that it engages in non-marketing issues, including tourism policy and programs such as visas and air service agreements (see Chapter 2).

5.13Each state and territory has its own DMO, referred to as a State Tourism Organisation (STO). In addition to STOs, there are numerous Regional Tourism Organisations (RTOs) around Australia which perform a range of functions including marketing (mainly for domestic visitation) and capability development. At the local level, the Committee also heard from councils and local government authorities (LGAs) who can also take a role in tourism marketing.

5.14Mr Shane O’Hare, Chief Executive Officer of Launceston Airport explained the multi-layered marketing approach in the state of Tasmania:

The job of Tourism Tasmania is to promote 'brand Tasmania', if you like, and then the role of the regional tourist offices, like Visit Northern Tasmania, is more to promote the products of those particular regional tourism offices, and we do have a number of those here in Tasmania as well.[9]

5.15The Committee heard examples of where the delineation between agencies and functions has been flexible. TA explained it temporarily undertook domestic marketing during COVID-19 but upon re-opening of borders, its focus returned to the international market.[10] The Committee also noted the higher quality of domestic tourism marketing that occurred during the pandemic when compared to pre- or post-COVID-19, potentially as a result of this heightened integration.

5.16The Committee also heard that while TA has the lead role in international marketing, STOs also participate in this space. TA advised it:

… works closely with the state and territory tourism organisations (STOs) through our ‘one voice’ strategy to foster a whole-of-country approach to destination marketing. Tourism Australia offers all STOs the opportunity to partner on all campaigns.[11]

5.17Mr Brenton Cox, Managing Director at Adelaide Airport stressed the important role of TA as a ‘brand spearhead’, noting that TA should not try to be ‘too many things’. He asserted:

It is powerful to have that brand spearhead and to do that really well. I think it's critical that we continue to value the role that Tourism Australia has to play there, because, again, they're competing with some very well-funded international competitors.[12]

Reflections on destination marketing collaboration

5.18It was not a surprise that the Committee heard of the need for stronger collaboration and coordination between destination marketing organisations, given their large numbers. This was more evident from RTOs and LGAs, with STO’s generally reflecting on their positive working relationship with TA. For example, the South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) noted a close working relationship and an alignment of international market strategies,[13] and Mr Scott Lovett, Deputy Chief Executive Officer at the Northern Territory Government spoke of close relationship between STOs and TA.[14]

5.19The perspective from the regions was often different. There was also concern that TA was not always well informed about regional tourism products, with the result campaigns do not capture the ‘nuance and regional gems’ of regional Australia, and that campaigns are:

… often dominated by icons and don't reflect regional attractions or differences.[15]

5.20For example, the Orange City Council stated that TA’s campaigns were:

… all about kangaroos, the opera house and the Sydney Harbour Bridge.[16]

5.21However, Australian Regional Tourism (ART) told a more positive story about regional engagement, submitting that TA had:

… a well-developed relationship with the regions and a good understanding of product and need.[17]

5.22It also suggested there was a missing piece of ‘handing over’ international tourists to RTOs and STOs to encourage regional visitation.[18] Destination Central West NSW requested more information about upcoming TA opportunities so it could leverage opportunities, and called for an increased focus on domestic marketing to drive international visitors to the region.[19] It also raised concerns that TA was not adequately staffed to engage with regions.[20]

5.23Other witnesses pointed to the need to complement international campaigns with funding to support and maintain local tourism products – particularly authentic First Nations experiences and regional operators (see also Chapters 3 and 4).[21]

5.24Destination Central West NSW suggested greater alignment and coordination was needed to avoid duplication between STOs and TA,[22] with Mr Sean Haylan, General Manager at Destination Central West NSW noting the presence of staff from both TA and STOs in overseas marketing roles.[23]

5.25TA submitted it works closely with STOs ‘through [its] “one voice” strategy to foster a whole of country approach to destination marketing’, [24] and involves them in campaign planning, intergovernmental forums, and co-locates with STO representatives in offshore offices. For regional engagement, TA noted it has an industry relations team that engages across regional Australia including with RTOs, councils, industry associations and directly with operators.[25]

Tourism Australia campaign effectiveness

5.26In this section, the Committee reflects on evidence received on effectiveness of TA’s campaigns since international borders re-opened in February 2022. The SATC submitted that ‘repositioning’ Australia’s brand post-COVID-19 was a significant opportunity, and recommended efforts focus on key markets, highlighting safety as well as its environmental and sustainability.[26]

5.27Evidence on TA’s performance in its primary international marketing role was overwhelmingly positive. Sector peak bodies,[27] STOs and RTOs[28] were amongst those praising TA’s performance. Many called for TA’s funding to be increased to $200 million per year[29] or higher[30] given the fiercely competitive market and rising costs. Mr Evan Hall Chairperson of the Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC) noted that TA has suffered from a lack of funding increases over a long period:

One of the challenges that we've had is that Tourism Australia—which on the whole I would describe as a fairly effective organisation—in doing that destination marketing role has not had a real increase in budget for about 15 years…

Again, that is in a highly globally competitive market, so the ability for Tourism Australia to cut through is critical to the success of the industry. Frankly, they simply don't have the resources that they used to have to attract the market that we used to receive.[31]

5.28In October 2022, TA’s launched its post-COVID-19 international campaign headlined by the description and slogan ‘Come and Say G’day’. The campaign was designed to re-introduce Australia to the world after two years of closed borders. It follows Ruby, a computer-generated kangaroo, voiced by Australian actress Rose Byrne, and Louie, a toy unicorn representing international tourists. The multi-channel campaign features Ruby visiting various Australian locations, with the intent of building knowledge of, and interest in, places in Australia.[32]

5.29There has been widespread praise for the campaign. The Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) noted it had been ‘extremely well received’ and expressed confidence in the campaign.[33] The Backpacker & Youth Tourism Advisory Panel (BYTAP) ‘commended’ the campaign’s effectiveness,[34] with the Tourism and Transport Forum (TTF) noting the campaign had ‘hit the mark’ internationally.[35]

5.30The Embassy of the Philippines in Australia suggested that future campaigns be tailored to specific markets,[36] but the Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) noted TA does have effective tailored messaging which had ‘yielded incredible results’, particularly in India, which had seen a 126 per cent increase in visitation.[37]

The importance of data

5.31The THRIVE 2030 strategy highlights the importance of data and research for the success of the visitor economy:

Relevant, robust and timely data and insights that are easily accessible, discoverable and cost-effective are critical tools that underpin decision-making, business growth and investor confidence. They are also important for measuring industry performance, monitoring trends and informing government policy development. In some cases, more granular data is needed to guide specific business activity or for decisions regarding particular geographic locations.[38]

5.32Several witnesses highlighted the value of data in tailoring products and tracking in real time. Mr Tim Booth, Chief Executive at Mudgee Region Tourism, for example, argued a need for more real-time data:

… we need to be data informed so we're not left in a position where we're unsure of what's going on, on the ground…

Without that data it leaves a lot of regional areas pretty vulnerable.[39]

5.33Ms Adrienne Readings, Chair of Destination Gold Coast said that data was often six months old when released, adding that real-time data was needed to enable agility.[40] Ms Karen Bollinger, Interim Chief Executive of Destination Gold Coast told the Committee that real-time data and data that tells operators how visitors are spending their money is ‘something that the industry is crying out for’, and said she was aware that this is something THRIVE 2030 is looking at.[41]

5.34Dr Walters from the University of Queensland identified gaps in tourism data for the pre and post travel stages. Dr Walters advised that more data is needed about visitor travel preferences and visitor experiences, noting:

They [Tourism Australia and STOs] come up with findings like Australia is ranked in the top five most desired destinations. But my question would be: what about those who didn't put Australia in the top five desired destinations? Why? They're the ones we need to know about…

When people are leaving this country, are they satisfied? What was their experience like? What did they like about their experience? What didn't they like?[42]

5.35The Committee was also alerted to a gap in data for First Nations tourism. The National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA) told the Committee that there is uncertainty about the exact number of First Nations tourism operators given the lack of First Nations business identifiers in national data sets. The NIAA went on to say:

Significant gaps in data on the First Nations tourism sector presents challenges for business growth and investment decision making.[43]

5.36The Committee was also made aware of the confusion that exists with data on the interaction between the tourism and international education. Various data points were provided as to the proportion of international tourism attributable to international students. In its original submission, Austrade stated that international education contributed $40 billion (or 68 per cent) to the international tourism sector’s $59 billion of earnings in 2019.[44] Subsequently, Austrade clarified that students in Australia for more than 12 months are not technically counted as ‘visitors’ for the definition of tourism. On a more technical interpretation, international students comprise only 39 per cent of international tourism.[45]

5.37Austrade informed the Committee that, as part of THRIVE 2030, it has completed an investigation of data needs through a data working group.[46] The working group’s report made three recommendations that are relevant here:

• Explore if financial data can provide visitor estimates for geographic locations.
• Develop mobility data which can improve domestic visitor statistics and produce event measurement and information on travel paths and trips.
• Expand research on environmental and social measures of tourism.[47]
  38. The Committee notes that Tourism Research Australia (TRA) has released the first of its mobility data products in September 2023, with an interactive dashboard that allows users to see changes in movements for domestic tourism across states and territories. The data will be expanded in the future to include tourism regions.[48]

Workforce and skills

5.39‘A skilled, quality workforce of sufficient size to support world class service levels’ is critical for the success of the tourism sector, according to Austrade.[49] Many submissions spoke of a chronic workforce shortage among both skilled and non-skilled workers in the tourism sector that is slowing the sector’s growth. Austrade noted that the visitor economy has faced significant workforce and skills challenges over recent years, and that these challenges were exacerbated by the pandemic.[50] The workforce challenges discussed in Chapters 3 and 4 are in large part caused by the broader issues discussed below.

5.40In terms of workforce shortages, the ACCI noted a gap of around 370,000 workers in March 2023.[51] The Australian Outdoor Industry submitted that adventure tourism operators lost half of its workforce during the pandemic, many of whom were foreign nationals on a working holiday or a student visa.[52]

5.41In a recent report, TRA advised that while workforce numbers improved significantly over the course of 2022 and 2023, skills shortages remain. It reported the number of tourism filled jobs is still 13 per cent below pre-pandemic levels as at December 2023 and that skills shortages remain elevated relative to the pre-pandemic period, especially for particular roles such as waiters and chefs.[53] It also noted that seven occupations on the Australian Government’s Skills Priority List are relevant to the visitor economy, including accommodation and hospitality managers; air transport professionals; train drivers; cooks, chefs, bakers, pastrycooks; waiters; travel consultants and; tour guides.[54]

5.42The City of Gold Coast identified the shortage of talent and an inability to retain talent as a major challenge.[55] The Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) noted that the pandemic coupled with widespread demand had ‘critically compounded pre-existing workforce issues’, telling the Committee that workforce casualisation, a perceived lack of a career path, lack of affordable housing, low wages, and a slow return of short-term migrants with working visas were key issues.[56] In response, QTIC called for ‘supportive frameworks’ such as targeting workers from the Asia-Pacific region, build broader sector resilience, and clearer pathways for career progression.[57]

5.43Tourism Western Australia noted that much of the work to strengthen the workforce of the tourism sector is being duplicated across the states and territories, and suggested this work could benefit from greater coordination.[58]

5.44A 2021 report by Austrade investigated the sector’s long-term structural workforce weaknesses, and found they are caused by the combination of a high reliance on part-time staff, job seasonality and insecurity, and lower average pay. It concluded:

The transient, seasonal, and low-pay nature of the Visitor Economy workforce are structural weaknesses that are likely to undermine the health of the Visitor Economy itself.[59]

5.45Austrade’s report made some suggestions on how to address challenges around:

… how best to nurture the workforce as a competitive advantage; the best formal and informal means to develop the necessary mix of cognitive, social and technology skills; how best to enhance national mechanisms to assess the state of the labour market and suggest actions to match demand with supply; and how best to draw on more diverse and underemployed labour supplies, including people with a disability and older Australians.[60]

5.46THRIVE 2030 highlights workforce as one of its seven priorities and established a working group in 2022 to identify gaps and provide practical solutions to workforce challenges.[61] The working group developed the 2023 Visitor Economy Workforce and Skills Interim Action Plan which lays the groundwork for an upcoming long-term strategy that links in with other government reviews into migration and employment. In its submission, Austrade outlined a range of workforce initiatives it has already implemented including: grants to promote tourism as a career of choice, funding an employment portal, and leveraging economy wide measures such as the Australian Government’s Work Bonus for Older Australians.[62]

The importance of flexible and seasonal workers

5.47The Committee consistently heard how the sector relies heavily on temporary migrants to fill casual and seasonal workforce vacancies. These include primarily working holiday makers (WHMs), international students, and overseas residents entering Australia under the Pacific Australia Labour Mobility (PALM) scheme. This has arisen due the sector’s historical reliance on seasonal, casual and lower-paid cohorts of workers.[63]

Working holiday makers

5.48The Department of Home Affairs described the WHM program as follows:

The Working Holiday Maker visa allows young adults from certain countries to have a 12-month holiday in Australia, during which they can undertake short-term work and study. Extensions are available to WHM holders who undertake certain work in regional Australia.[64]

5.49The program allows eligible persons from 48 countries to travel, work, and study in Australia.[65] WHMs contribute as both workforce and consumer whilst travelling. Austrade noted that WHMs – typically younger visitors on longer trips – are ‘an important visitor cohort’, with 308,000 arrivals spending about $2.6 billion in 2019.[66]

5.50During the pandemic, WHM numbers dropped significantly, with fewer than 40,000 WHM visas granted in 2020–21. By 2022–23, this figure had climbed to over 220,000.[67] The BYTAP described WHMs as ‘integral to rebuilding tourism in both urban and regional Australia’, noting their propensity to disperse and help address regional workforce shortages:

WHM’s dispersal is especially critical in filling casual temporary jobs in tourism & hospitality in regional areas, supporting these industries to be able to operate at full capacity.[68]

5.51Regional Development Australia-Kimberley (RDA-K) described workforce shortages across the tourism industry in the Kimberley and highlighted that many major accommodation providers rely on WHMs and PALM workers.[69]

5.52The ATEC concurred with the BYTAP regarding the benefits from WHMs like dispersal and a much-needed temporary workforce,[70] although the SATC cautioned that there is an ongoing challenge for dispersal of WHMs to the regions.[71] The SATC detailed its initiative to offer 200 subsidised flights to Australia for WHM applicants, resulting in over 2,000 applicants.[72]

5.53The Embassy of the Philippines noted the recently agreed Memorandum of Understanding to establish WHM arrangements between Australian and the Philippines, which it claimed would boost tourism, trade, and people-to-people connections.[73]

5.54Some witnesses expressed criticisms of the WHM program. Adventure Queensland submitted that recent WHM application fee increases had been detrimental, noting that Australians using reciprocal schemes in partner countries pay only ‘a fraction’ of that paid by WHMs coming to Australia.[74] The ATEC submitted that fee hikes had made Australia’s WHM visa the most expensive among comparable overseas programs, claiming that high fees ‘have directly and definitively impacted visitation’,[75] with the ACCI warning WHMs are highly price sensitive.[76]

5.55BYTAP and Adventure Queensland pointed to other factors limiting WHM numbers, including age limits, eligibility criteria for second and third year visas, visa caps, and English language requirements.[77] The ATEC recommended a temporary reduction in WHM fees and an expansion of the definition of ‘eligible work’.[78]

5.56In March 2023, the Department of Home Affairs released a review of the migration system, which recommended WHM visas be limited to one year to ensure the primary focus remains cultural exchange rather than employment or migration.[79] The report pointed to the potential negative impact of WHMs (and international students) on youth and local unemployment in Australia, as well as the potential for worker exploitation.[80] Accommodation Australia cautioned against these changes, arguing it was important the program ‘retains structural incentives for WHMs to work in the regions’.[81] Adventure Queensland cautioned that limiting WHM visas to one year would lead to the loss of around 40,000 WHMs each year. It further argued:

The subsequent loss to regional tourism in particular, will be huge given this sector work and stay in regional areas for long periods of time and experience many tourism activities while there.[82]

5.57In December 2023, the Australian Government released its Migration Strategy, stating it would evaluate regional migration settings and the WHM program to better support regional Australia, whilst ensuring migration pathways do not contribute to worker exploitation.[83] The Committee noted a 2024 Department of Home Affairs Discussion Paper that confirms the Australian Government is not considering limiting the WHM visa to one year, and will be looking at how to address exploitation.[84]

International students

5.58International students contribute a vital workforce to the tourism sector, as detailed in the Committee’s Interim Report focusing on the international education sector.[85] Accommodation Australia described the tourism sector as a ‘strong beneficiary’ of the international education sector, emphasising the value of their travel within Australia and their contributions to the tourism workforce – particularly the accommodation sector.[86]

5.59BYTAP submitted that international students bolster the tourism sector as students typically travel when on study breaks or after concluding their courses.[87] ATEC pointed to a ‘multiplier effect’, whereby the families and friends of international students often visit Australia.[88] The New South Wales (NSW) Government noted that prior to COVID-19, international students accounted for over 40 per cent of international visitor expenditure, with their friends and relatives who visited contributing further.[89]

5.60The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) called for efforts to attract and retain international students, and recommended more investment in paid internships and other work experience. It also advocated an online platform to connect students and employers, and short courses to rapidly upskill international students to help address skills shortages.[90] QTIC similarly called for more favourable policies and clearer pathways for international students to enter the workforce.[91]

5.61During the pandemic, student visa work conditions were relaxed and then completely removed to allow visa holders to work over the fortnightly limit of 40 hours. A cap of 48 hours per fortnight was re-instated in July 2023. The City of Geraldton expressed concern that this was shrinking labour supply, negatively affecting service quality, and jeopardising business viability – particularly in regional areas.[92] The ATEC also called for new provisions to allow graduates from a wider range of degrees to stay and work longer to boost the workforce.[93]

5.62The Committee reiterates its alarm at the evidence of workplace exploitation of students, reported on in its Interim Report. It made several recommendations to address this unacceptable conduct.[94] The Committee was pleased however to hear more encouraging evidence regarding student experiences from the ACT.[95]

Pacific Australian Labour Mobility (PALM) workers

5.63The PALM scheme is an Australian Government program that allows eligible Australian businesses to hire workers from nine Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste to fill specified roles when there are not enough local workers available.

5.64While the scheme fills labour market gaps, particularly in the agricultural sector, it is also an important opportunity for building capacity in the Pacific workforce and enables employees to support their families and communities back home. The latest update, from June 2023, reports there were 39,644 PALM scheme workers in Australia working for 423 approved employers. Long-term workers sent an estimated $168 million in remittances to their home countries between July 2018 and May 2023. Short-term workers send an average $1,061 a month in remittances.[96]

5.65Some submissions noted the opportunities presented by the PALM scheme as a source of low skilled workers in regional areas. The ACCI praised the scheme, and noted it had ‘fairly significant integrity measures’ underpinning it.[97] However, Tourism Western Australia submitted that operators often struggled to access the program due to labour market testing and the requirement for extensive participant support.[98]

5.66Representatives from PALM source countries recommended improvements to the program, including mitigating the loss of workers from home countries, and increasing education and skills development for participants while in Australia.[99]

Workforce capability – skilled workers and skill development

5.67As noted above, while workforce numbers (capacity) improved significantly in 2022 and 2023, skills (capability) shortages remain. Submitters identified two key solutions to the issue of workforce capability: education and training, and skilled migration.

Education and training - upskilling and reskilling

5.68The ACCI’s submission summarised that training and skill development in the tourism sector is addressed through four avenues: direct entry into skilled roles; training in blended pathways (apprenticeship/ traineeship); upskilling the existing workforce, and; reskilling the existing workforce to adapt to changing customer needs and trends.[100]

5.69The ACCI outlined that its December 2022 submission to the Government’s Employment White Paper addressed the direct entry pathway, noting the central role of vocational education and training (VET), and the importance of funding for that sector. It stressed that funding must cover both public and private VET providers and be responsive to skill shortages and to skill needs. It highlighted that travel and hospitality remain substantially unfunded at the State level, and is advocating that entry-level Certificate I – III programs be funded by States as part of the National Agreement for Skills and Workforce Development (NASWD).[101] Accommodation Australia agreed, noting many hospitality qualifications have not always been funded and, like the ACCI, lamented the restriction of funds to public providers (including TAFE), noting the important role of private providers in the sector.[102]

5.70Maximising direct entry requires attracting participants to the sector in the first place. To help this, Austrade and Tourism Industry Council South Australia (TICSA) stressed the need for tourism to be seen as a viable ‘career of choice,’[103] to attract and retain workers.[104]

5.71Sector peak bodies highlighted the criticality of apprenticeships and traineeships to building a skilled workforce. The ACCI noted the need for apprenticeship support for both skills development and school transition pathways. It called for government provided wage subsidies without limitation by skill priority lists, and the reinstatement of fixed monetary completion incentives to employers to assist retention.[105]

5.72The TTF called for incentives for young Australians to join the tourism workforce, including reduced fees for skills and training programs.[106] Accommodation Australia recommended consideration be given to funding micro-credential (or skill set) courses because:

With unemployment low, there is less incentive for a job seeker or existing employee to undertake a full qualification, but economic outcomes and productivity would be improved if they undertake some immediate skills development.[107]

Skilled migration

5.73Skilled migrants are also a critical component of the tourism sector’s skilled workforce. The TTF contended that ‘attract[ing] international skilled workers’ is critical to address a ‘major supply constraint’ on skilled labour. They explained:

There is a misconception that the tourism industry is just cooks and chefs. It is a wide spread of professions including skilled workers in tourism management positions and highly skilled hospitality workers from overseas who have made the sector a lifelong career. Other areas that require focus include logistics, management, design and sustainability technology (i.e., in biofuels).[108]

5.74Evidence highlighted other issues in accessing skilled migrant workers, including delays processing visitor visas and airfare costs.[109]

5.75Accommodation Australia told the Committee that skilled occupation lists on which these migration pathways rely are produced at the national level. It argued that skills demands are often local and therefore not identified through national analysis.[110] More generally, it called for flexibility in the jobs that could be facilitated through employer-sponsored migration pathways and recommended greater mobility for temporary skilled migrants to reduce risks of exploitation by employers.[111]

New workforce cohorts

5.76To boost workforce capacity, Austrade recommended seeking workforce participation from ‘under-represented cohorts’, including mature workers, First Nations peoples, people with disability, younger workers, and women.[112]

5.77The Committee notes the Australian Government has taken some steps in this area through the Work Bonus program for older Australians and the Tourism Local Navigator Pilot Program to encourage employment of people with disability. The potential to increase participation by First Nations peoples was considered in Chapter 3. The Committee also noted the NIAA’s efforts to leverage employment for First Nations People by transitioning the Community Development Program to a new remote jobs program.[113]

Transport

5.78Australia is a vast and remote country, making affordable, accessible and efficient transport critical. Given the significance of aviation and cruises in accessing Australia from both overseas and within Australia, this section concentrates on the challenges and concerns the Committee heard in relation to those two modes of transport.

Air travel

5.79The SATC submitted that direct access by air for international visitors from key markets was ‘a critical factor for tourism and economic growth’, and emphasised it has a focus on ensuring easy and affordable access to South Australia from overseas and other Australian destinations.[114] Destination Gold Coast described the aviation sector as:

… essential infrastructure for both tourism and the broader community.[115]

5.80Austrade explained the criticality of travel by air to Australia’s tourism sector:

Aviation is vital to bringing international visitors to Australia and moving Australians around the country. The ultimate objective is for a competitive, reliable and regular aviation network, both inbound and within Australia, that is well linked with other modes of transport.[116]

5.81The Australian Airports Association (AAA) submitted that COVID-19 had a ‘catastrophic’ impact on Australian airports.[117] It told the Committee that aviation was already experiencing a slowdown prior to the onset of the pandemic which it said was due to low wages growth, a softening economy, and the maturity of travel and tourism markets in Australia. It predicted the aviation sector would continue to experience slow growth amid ongoing inflationary and cost of living pressures, and the high cost of aviation fuel.[118]

5.82Austrade noted that the Australian Government’s Aviation White Paper would provide a policy agenda out to 2050 to achieve a safe, reliable, competitive and environmentally friendly aviation sector.[119]

5.83A recent update from TRA reveals that there has been a solid recovery in aviation capacity as at the end of June 2023 with further increases expected to be reported for 2024. TRA reports that domestic seat capacity was sitting at 94 per cent of pre-pandemic (2019) levels, with international capacity lagging a little further behind at 84 per cent.[120] The Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics reported that in 2022–23, there were 29.8 million revenue passengers on international flights into Australia, having reached a peak of 42.1 million passengers in 2018–19. The figures for domestic flights were 55.3 million passengers and 71.1 million passengers respectively.[121]

5.84Evidence received during the inquiry pointed to three major factors undermining air access to Australia for international visitors: capacity; costs; and concerns over the environmental impact of air travel.

5.85Mr Dean Long, Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA), told the Committee that capacity is the number one constraint preventing a full recovery of aviation in Australia. He went on to note that the main factor causing capacity constraint is regulatory disjointedness, explaining:

We don't have a single place where decisions that directly impact supply of aviation seats to this country are made … [W]e need to bring that together. The ACCC [Australian Competition and Consumer Commission] is the right body to have that because they can have a look at what impact the bilateral would have on consumer price, how that overlays with an authorisation to competition law that's been provided and what the ultimate impact is going to be on those businesses. We need more supply, and that's really critical. We also need to review the competition settings that allow those authorisations to occur. I think what we need to see is making sure that the ultimate consumer is in the front and centre in that.[122]

5.86Mr James Goodwin, AAA Chief Executive, attributed capacity constraints to physical constraints at airports, such as slots and terminal capacity; regulatory constraints, including movement caps and curfews; and network constraints, such as air traffic control and flight paths. He insisted these constraints,

… present challenges in building increased connectivity to growth markets.[123]

5.87On domestic capacity, the ATIA said the landing slot management system at Sydney Airport is:

… fundamentally the handbrake on growth for our industry.[124]

5.88The ATIA noted the current system dates back to a 1940s convention and it desperately needs reform.[125]

5.89The Committee noted the Australian Government’s announcement in February 2024 of a major package of reforms to the Sydney Airport demand management scheme that will modernise compliance, increase transparency, introduce penalties for anti-competitive behaviour, and improve connectivity for regional communities.[126]

5.90Austrade and the TTF recommended that aviation capacity be increased by negotiating new and more flexible Air Service Agreements and building new infrastructure.[127] Western Sydney Airport similarly argued for a more liberal approach to bilateral air service agreements:

Enabling airlines to make decisions on whether and how to service a route based on commercial and operational drivers, rather than regulatory considerations, promotes competition in aviation markets. This has flow-on benefits for Australian consumers, tourism and trade.[128]

5.91Witnesses highlighted the potential of increasing the number of non-capital city airports that can receive international flights as a way to increase capacity. In the Kimberley, the Broome Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI) and RDA-K highlighted the potential of Broome International Airport to bring more international visitors to the region, and called for the permanent provision of Australian Border Force personnel to service international flights.[129] The BCCI also pointed to the limited number of direct flights from major cities to Broome as a ‘direct barrier to an increase of domestic tourism’.[130]

5.92The AAA also highlighted opportunities to build direct routes to large regional airports, like Broome, that are already capable of receiving international flights. It noted an additional 13 airports across Australia could take international aircraft if they were serviced by Border Force personnel.[131]

5.93The ACCI and the TTF pointed to the correlation between air capacity and airfares (cost).[132] The TTF also noted that some carriers had been reluctant to maintain air routes due to soaring costs that were anticipated to reduce demand.[133]

5.94From an airline’s perspective, Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group noted the factors an airline considers in deciding when and how much capacity to give to an airline route: an assessment of demand for travel between markets, schedule timings, aircraft type, manpower and the ability of airports to handle airline requirements.[134]

5.95Accommodation Australia highlighted the value of increased airline access to Australia, arguing that more capacity would create competition and reduce airfares. It also called for an urgent review of the July 2023 decision to deny Qatar Airways’ request to operate more flights to Australia, which it views as ‘a major concern’.[135]

5.96Many witnesses saw cost as a key constraint to travel, for example the City of Gold Coast identifying it as a barrier for long-haul travel.[136] The AAA conceded that Australia’s remoteness leads to increased costs for international visitors, but submitted Australia’s isolation is also part of the appeal for many tourists.[137] Dr Walters told the Committee that prices for flights to Australia from key destinations had increased since the pandemic by as much as 50 per cent due to fuel costs and efforts by airlines to recoup costs incurred during COVID-19.[138] The QTIC cautioned that rising costs threatened to put Australia’s brand at risk.[139]

5.97While the price of flights is primarily a commercial decision by airlines, the AAA pointed to governments’ role through regulation and infrastructure to create an economic environment that can help keep costs down. For example, regulations on caps and curfews, providing quality infrastructure, and negotiating bilateral air service agreements are all areas where governments can exercise influence.[140]

5.98Destination Gold Coast called for investment in a national aviation attraction fund or subsidised flights to incentivise travel.[141] The NSW Government highlighted its Aviation Attraction Fund, designed to ‘improve access and build aviation capacity in the state’.[142] The AAA recommended greater coordination across levels of government to attract and retain international air routes.[143] The TTF described these funds as ‘vital to the return of capacity’.[144]

5.99Ms Readings of Destination Gold Coast suggested aviation attraction efforts should be coordinated with destination marketing to ensure both demand for additional capacity as well as its supply to meet demand.[145]

5.100Carbon emissions from aviation were noted as an increasing deterrent to air travel, particularly to long-haul travel. The SATC pointed to a desire among many travellers to reduce their carbon footprint, which it claimed was deterring some from choosing Australia.[146] As mentioned in Chapter 4, some witnesses referred to the ‘flight shaming’ phenomenon where air travel is demonised due to its contribution to emissions.[147] Austrade noted that the Australian Government’s Aviation White Paper is expected to address the need for improved sustainability of air travel, including how to reduce emissions.[148]

5.101Mr Goodwin of the AAA outlined efforts within the airport sector to meet net-zero commitments noting:

We need to make sure that Australia, Australian tourism and the Australian economy are not disadvantaged as we transition to net zero.[149]

Cruise sector

5.102According to Cruise Lines International Association Australasia (CLIA Australasia), around 1.3 million Australians took an ocean cruise prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing around $5 billion to the Australian economy and supporting over 18,000 jobs.[150] Evidence to the Committee pointed to the growth in the demand for cruise tourism and the subsequent opportunities it presents – particularly for regional areas that are otherwise harder to reach for international visitors. CLIA Australasia argued that cruises bring widespread economic benefits to regional Australia, as well as to major cities.[151]

5.103However, several submitters raised challenges that undermine the cruise sector’s ability to deliver higher visitor numbers. For example, CLIA Australasia identified infrastructure was needed in Sydney to accommodate more cruise ships,[152] and called for regulatory certainty to support greater regional dispersal of passengers:

With the right regulatory settings and infrastructure the cruise sector is confident it can support more Australians to travel within Australia and can offer international visitors longer cruise holidays that visit more Australian destinations.[153]

5.104The Committee also heard about regulatory issues related to cruise ship arrival approvals. Cruise ships can only enter Australia at ports that are designated first-points-of-entry (FPOE), unless granted special approval to dock elsewhere. The Australian Government notes this ensures that vessels entering Australia can only do so at a locations that can manage biosecurity risks.[154] RDA-K submitted that requesting alternative port approval can be ‘onerous, complex and time consuming’.[155] CLIA Australasia called for more border agency staff to clear cruise passengers arriving at Australian ports, as well as offering en route clearances.[156]

5.105The BCCI, RDA-K, and the Shire of Broome advocated that ports in the Kimberley region, specifically Broome and Wyndham, be designated as FPOE for cruise ships.[157] BCCI told the Committee the lack of FPOE determination meant that international visitors had to pass through larger gateway cities before travelling to the region and were limited to day tours only, deterring visitors. BCCI claimed:

This adversely affects the local economy, as Broome misses out on the economic benefits of tourism expenditure that would be generated if it were the point of disembarkation and the initial point of arrival for international vessels.[158]

5.106The Shire of Broome also called for investment in air and seaport facilities (including customs and immigration services), to allow for more visitors.[159] The Committee notes that in February 2024, the Australian Government approved efforts to expand the Port of Broome and to work towards FPOE status for the port.[160]

5.107The Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA) called for an ongoing strategy and funding structure that has a wholistic perspective, in response to the:

… risk that Australia has a two-tiered approach one for airports and another for seaports.[161]

5.108In keeping with the demand for sustainable tourism discussed above in relation to air travel, CLIA Australasia called for investments in new cruise infrastructure that would eliminate carbon emissions whilst ships are berthed.[162]

Passenger movement charge

5.109Stakeholders highlighted the Australian Government’s passenger movement charge (PMC) as an impediment to cost efficient transport access into Australia. The Government levies the PMC on the departure of every person from Australia (with some exemptions), both residents and non-residents. The charge is currently $70 per person and is collected by a carrier (airline, shipping company) when a ticket is sold to a passenger.[163] The AFTA estimates that the PMC was generating $1.2 billion in revenue each year prior to the pandemic.[164]

5.110Stakeholders told the Committee they see the PMC as an impediment to inbound tourism as it increases traveller costs. AFTA expressed concern also on the high rate of the charge compared to other countries. It submitted that Australia’s PMC is the second highest in the world and is estimated to reduce passenger traffic to Australia by 4.2 per cent per year.[165]

5.111The Committee heard repeated calls that the revenue from the PMC should be reinvested back into the industry, for example through improvements to transport infrastructure or improving visa processing.[166] This was summed up by Mr Long of the AFTA:

We're not against a departure tax in all settings. We just believe there is sufficient revenue being raised through that tax already that is covering total cost of facilitation and also the cost of biosecurity. But, because of the way that it's being accounted for, it means those departments that have those services aren't actually able to receive that income. So, fundamentally, if we cap it at where it is today and we say no more increases, there'd be easily another five to 10 years where no increases will be needed. If that money was given back to the departments that ran those services, where we believe it should go, that would be a great outcome.[167]

Visa reform

5.112Much of the evidence gathered during this inquiry on visitor visas pointed to the need for reforms that would make it easier and more affordable for travellers to access visas. The Committee also notes the evidence and recommendations in its Interim Report regarding improvements to the student visa system, in particular to strengthened compliance of work rights and preventing exploitation of international students working in Australia (see Chapter 5 of the Committee’s Interim Report[168]).

5.113Austrade submitted that reforms to tourist visas were required to:

… ensure Australia remains competitive in attracting international visitors.[169]

5.114In particular, Austrade cautioned that protracted visa processing times could make Australia less competitive as a destination,[170] noting:

… processing delays had impacted the pace of Australia’s post-COVID recovery.[171]

5.115The ACCI warned in March 2023 that the visa processing backlog occurring at that time was ‘a deterrent to people to come to Australia’.[172]

5.116Mr Long from the ATIA was also critical of inefficiency in Australia’s visa system:

We have one of the world's worst visa systems in regard to efficiency. It's very effective and it keeps us very safe, but the efficiency of it, I think, according to all the international league tables for the last 15 or 20 years, hasn't been world leading.[173]

5.117Mr Cox from Adelaide Airport stressed the need to consider the visa process through the customer lens, as well as border security issues, noting Australia needs to think strategically about how it can make each step in the visa process as easy as possible relative to our competitors, without risking border security.[174] The City of Gold Coast advocated measures to address lengthy visa processing times, calling for, at a minimum, families and groups to be approved for travel at the same time.[175] Austrade also highlighted the barriers to travel from electronic travel applications being offered only to a limited number of countries and not available in languages other than English.[176]

5.118Similarly, the TTF called for streamlining of Australia’s visa system and making them more attractive to visitors from key markets.[177] Further, the ACCI expressed support for multiple-entry visas for visitors from low-risk countries.[178] The AAA also called for faster and more streamlined visa processes and also recommended multiple entry visas for emerging tourism markets, particularly China and India.[179]

5.119The Embassy of the Philippines called for streamlined visa procedures for ‘strategic partners’, like the Philippines.[180] Representations of Pacific neighbour countries also pointed out that the time taken to obtain a visa was a concern. The High Commissioner of Vanuatu in Australia noted:

When you talk to people back home, they will tell you that the biggest hurdle is not so much about having to pay for the airfare but the visa process, taking so long for them to obtain a visa. Sometimes they miss important events with their families and relatives here.[181]

5.120Pacific representatives also raised with concern the lack of reciprocal arrangements in Australia of ‘visas on arrival’ for Pacific country citizens.[182] It was also noted that with the large number of Pacific Island citizens in Australia under the PALM Scheme, there could be greater visitation from families if there was easier access to visitor visas.[183]

5.121Austrade also highlighted that lowering visa costs relative to international counterparts could make Australia more appealing to potential travellers.[184] It noted that whilst Australia offers fee-free visas for many traditional markets (Western Europe and the United States), visitors from emerging markets in Southeast Asia, for example, pay for tourist visas. It recommended expanding the number of countries eligible for multi-year entry visitor visas and expanding the length of stay for visitor visas from three months to six months.[185]

5.122The ACCI also noted Australia is ranked 130 out of 140 countries in terms of price competitiveness for tourism, and suggested visa costs were a contributing factor to Australia’s lack of competitiveness.[186] Destination Gold Coast called for the Federal Government to reconsider raising the cost of tourism visas.[187] Austrade suggested that ‘holistic reforms’ may be required to improve Australia’s competitiveness as a destination.[188]

5.123In addition to affecting international visitor numbers, as discussed earlier in this chapter, Australia’s visa regime impacts foreign nationals who travel to Australia to work in the tourism sector, and consequently impacts the sector’s workforce. Submitters and witnesses repeatedly pointed to the need for visa reforms that would help address the sector’s chronic workforce issues.

Investment and infrastructure

5.124The Committee heard that Australia must build and maintain quality hard infrastructure to provide travellers a positive tourism experience, including responding to consumer preferences, needs and trends. As submitted by Austrade:

Delivering world-class tourism experiences requires high-quality visitor infrastructure. Product providers and investors also must ensure that infrastructure meets the quality and practical needs of consumers, including accessibility needs.[189]

5.125The ACCI highlighted the infrastructure needs of regional areas, and noted that infrastructure built for tourists provides amenity not only to visitors, but to local communities, noting road improvements and regional airport upgrades as examples.[190] The challenges to investment in regions were outlined in Chapter 4.

5.126On private sector investment, the Committee listened with concern about the lack of investment to create and refresh tourism assets. The Committee heard that these investment decisions are for commercial consideration, and predominantly driven by rates of return on investment. The cost of investment was pointed out as a key factor, with labour and input costs relatively high in Australia.[191] The cost and delay of obtaining development approvals was also raised in evidence.[192] Mr Andrew Bullock Councillor from the Australian Hotels Association South Australia noted ‘it is ridiculously difficult to get through the planning process’.[193] Ms Joanne Birley, Industry Development Manager of Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism noted there has been no major hotel investment in the region for over 10 years, with at least two projects stalling in the development stage.[194]

5.127The TTF called out the need to invest in national parks and nature-based tourism assets, noting the growing demand for nature-based tourism. The TTF pointed to the broader societal benefit of these investments, citing:

environmental and social benefits through improved conservation and by respectfully engaging with traditional owners, ensuring nature-based experiences focus on indigenous culture.[195]

5.128However, Mr Hall of the ATIA noted regulatory barriers for investment in nature-based product subject to the Environmental and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (Cth) (EPBC Act):

Many a small tourism business with a fantastic sustainable product has absolutely failed to invest because they cannot get through the dual processes of approval at a national park level within a state government and the EPBC Act.[196]

5.129In its submission, the QTIC summed it up as follows:

There is no confidence to invest in the industry from both operators and financial institutions without clear leadership, coordination between all levels of government and between departments to address operational issues and regulatory complexities.[197]

5.130The QTIC recommended a Co-ordinator General or similar model to assist business navigate the approval process. The Committee heard that Tasmania has a Co-ordinator General who has been successful in attracting new hotel investment.[198] Other suggestions to address the lack of private investment were government grant funding for asset development, or government guarantees for investors.[199]

Short-stay accommodation

5.131On the value of short-stay accommodation to the tourism sector, Airbnb submitted:

The sharing economy helps build resilient communities where locals can create supplementary income, and robust economies that are supported by increased visitation and spending by Airbnb guests—often in areas that do not traditionally benefit from the tourist dollar. As a result, Airbnb helps empower communities to share in the benefits of tourism and welcome new visitors to their neighbourhoods…[200]

5.132Airbnb claimed their guests contributed $10 billion, spent a further $8 billion in the communities in which they stayed, and supported 90,000 jobs.[201] Airbnb also emphasised the ‘crucial role’ short-term accommodation plays in regional Australia, which it told the Committee makes up nearly a third of nights booked via Airbnb.[202]

5.133Tourism Western Australia submitted that long-stay rentals in parts of the state that had once accommodated workers had been converted into short-stay holiday homes during the COVID-19 pandemic. They stated that some accommodation providers had reduced their operational capacity in response to workforce shortages, whilst others had ‘taken advantage of high demand’ to ‘substantially’ increase their prices. Tourism Western Australia cautioned these developments may lead to reputational damage and reduced demand among tourists.[203]

5.134The City of Gold Coast were critical of the lack of regulations governing online accommodation providers and limited data available on its impact. It called for policies to ensure better data to support informed decision-making and regulations.[204]

5.135Accommodation Australia similarly noted that while commercial accommodation providers are highly regulated, short-term rental providers in most jurisdictions are not. It further claimed that short-stay accommodation has resulted in a ‘gross under-utilisation’ of accommodation during the current housing crisis, particularly in higher tourist areas where staff working in the tourism sector may struggle to find accommodation. It called for more consistent and effective national regulation of short-stay accommodation.[205]

Building resilience in the visitor economy

Climate adaptation and disaster preparedness

5.136A spate of natural disasters over recent years and the COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated the vulnerability of Australia’s tourism sector to shocks. With micro, small and medium sized businesses dominating the sector, businesses often lack the time and resources to invest in building resilience. Austrade cautioned that these small businesses are particularly vulnerable to shocks and need external support to become more resilient.[206]

5.137Echoing this concern, Ecotourism Australia (EA) cautioned that eco and nature-based tourism is dependent on the natural environment, making it particularly vulnerable to increasing natural disasters like bushfires, floods, and cyclones.[207] EA called for greater efforts to protect the sector from natural disasters:

While natural disaster recovery is not new to us or our sector, the scale, intensity and international impact of future environmental catastrophes requires a continued and significant national response for, and by, our industry.[208]

5.138The City of Geraldton submitted that Cyclone Seroja, which hit the Mid West in April 2021, led to closure of 16 businesses that mostly operated in the tourism sector, and a decrease in accommodation to around two-thirds of pre-cyclone levels. Whilst recovery was supported by the National Disaster Recovery Fund, the City told the Committee this only enabled communities to replace what had been lost, rather than to rebuild more resilient structures.[209]

5.139Austrade noted that there are a range of government and industry resources to help businesses build resilience, including industry specific tools to create risk management plans.[210] THRIVE 2030 has a dedicated action to drive resilience and crisis management capability.[211]

5.140In the climate resilience space, the Committee also noted work underway at a national level on the Australian Government’s National Climate Resilience and Adaptation Strategy 2021-2025. The Australian Government is also developing Australia’s first National Climate Risk Assessment and National Adaptation Plan which will help government and business understand risks and impacts from climate change and provide guidance on how to respond.

Insurance availability and costs

5.141Taking out insurance cover helps a business maintain continuity and manage resilience. The availability, affordability, and adequacy of insurance for businesses in the visitor economy was raised by many witnesses. The Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO) described an ‘insurance-market dysfunction’ was present for the sector, and noted businesses surveyed in New South Wales and Queensland identified insurance cover as among their largest concerns.[212]

5.142The QTIC described what it sees as an ‘insurance market failure’, and called for:

… a tourism insurance policy plan that makes it affordable for tourism industries that are small and micro.[213]

5.143The TICSA noted insurance availability and cost had been an issue for some time, with the COVID-19 pandemic and an increasing number of natural disasters amplifying the problem.[214] The ASBFEO also partially attributed lack of affordable insurance cover to increased climate risks.[215] EA agreed, and cautioned many operators had been unable to secure appropriate insurance coverage. It provided the Committee with details of one operator whose insurance premiums had risen by more than four times over five years to constitute a quarter of its operating revenue in 2022-23.[216]

5.144Austrade pointed to the availability and affordability of insurance – particularly public liability and natural disaster cover – as a ‘key challenge’ for many small tourism operators, due predominantly to lower profitability and reduced risk appetites among insurers and re-insurers.[217]

5.145The Australian Outdoor Industry noted there were only a few insurers approved by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA), the statutory authority regulating the financial services industry, that offer cover for adventure activities. Some providers rely on non-APRA-approved providers, placing themselves and customers at risk. The Australian Outdoor Industry recommended the Australian Government look for ways to ensure certainty of insurance products for tourism providers, particularly for adventure activities.[218]

5.146Appearing before the Committee, the Insurance Council of Australia (ICA) provided some insight on the problems facing the sector. It noted, more generally, there has been a ‘hard insurance market characterised by rising premiums and reduced insurance capacity’ across a range of insurance products.[219] This, it said, has been driven by providers paying out more in claims than they take in premiums.

5.147The ICA outlined the three factors driving insurance premiums: risk, number of claims, and the quantum of claims. It noted in the case of public liability insurance, premium increases have mainly been driven by the cost of personal injury claims.[220] Both the ICA and Austrade advised they have been working closely with the tourism sector to educate it on how insurance works and how to better manage risk. Austrade noted it delivered workshops in 2023 on measures businesses can take to reduce their risk profile and enhance access to insurance.[221]

5.148The ICA nominated other areas for reform that may help reduce the costs of insurance more generally. These include: civil liability law reform, more mitigation infrastructure, and removing state taxes on insurance premiums, thought to be worth about $6 billion annually.[222]

Committee comment

Collaboration

5.149It is clear to the Committee that despite the significant goodwill within the tourism sector, the ‘connective tissue’ between the different levels of government and various agencies who oversee, regulate and support the sector could be improved to produce better outcomes more efficiently. The Committee is concerned that this connective deficiency ultimately manifests at the local level where operators do not receive timely or sufficient information and the advice they need to grow their businesses, and feel they do not have an effective mechanism to input into policy development and government decisions.

5.150Given the sector’s complexity it is the Committee’s view that there needs to be a clearer delineation and understanding of roles and responsibilities. For example, it was apparent that some stakeholders thought TA has primary responsibility for industry development and representing the industry on policy issues like aviation and visas, when these are the purview of Austrade and other federal government agencies. Further, some sectoral issues span multiple levels of government, resulting in confusion for operators as to who to approach for information and assistance.

5.151Compounding this, the Committee is convinced of a ‘disconnect’ between regional bodies like RTOs and LGAs and Australian Government agencies regarding marketing and industry development responsibilities. It is imperative that the disconnect is rectified, given tourism operators ‘at the coalface’ are likely to have most interaction with their RTOs and LGAs, rather than state and federal agencies. Federal and state agencies could also be better informed of the tourism products available and in the pipeline in regions, and of the development and regulatory concerns of operators on the ground. The Committee therefore believes it would be beneficial to implement improved engagement and communication mechanisms between federal, state and territory government agencies with regional and local government agencies and operators to better communicate policies and programs, and for government agencies to hear more directly from operators about their ideas, needs and concerns.

5.152It is the Committee’s view that the sector would benefit from a document that clearly communicates the respective responsibilities of government agencies at different levels. These agencies should also have an agreed ‘communication protocol’ that is well understood by staff which ensures that no matter which agency is approached for assistance by an operator, they can get a clear and consistent response about who and where to go. The Committee refers to this as a ‘no-wrong-door’ approach to sector support.

Destination marketing

5.153The Australian tourism sector has a complex and overlapping DMO arrangement. While there is general agreement that TA’s primary role is international destination marketing, the Committee is concerned about expectations that TA should perform many other functions. For example, various stakeholders stated that TA should be undertaking product development, including with First Nations input, and addressing aviation supply.

5.154The Committee’s view is that TA should focus on its primary objective to drive demand, and not on industry development and policy issues that are the remit of Austrade and government agencies. The Committee therefore believes that the Minister for Tourism should issue an updated Statement of Expectation for TA that confirms this focus. Further, domestic marketing should be left to STOs, RTOs and LGAs who are all performing this function.

5.155It is also apparent to the Committee that at the local level there is misunderstanding or a lack of communication about international marketing strategies. The Committee encourages TA and STOs to communicate and explain their international marketing methods clearly to RTOs and operators, and to continue to advise them of strategies operators can take to leverage their campaigns.

Data

5.156The Committee is firmly of the view that data and research are critical for informed decision making by governments and businesses. With ever evolving trends in visitation, it is imperative that tourism providers can easily access quality data to enable them to make business decisions and tailor products that meet customer needs. While there is currently significant historical and trend data available on visitor arrivals and expenditure and pull factors that drive visitation to Australia, there is a general view that this information is not sufficiently contemporary or granular for business needs.

5.157The Committee has concluded that the wide array of data that is available is often not apparent, easily accessible, or easily interpreted by the average small to medium sized tourism business. A good example of this is the confusing nature of total tourism expenditure and how much is attributable to international students. While the Committee is encouraged that there appears to be no shortage of data in this area, it observes that the information could be presented and explained in more user-friendly ways.

5.158The Committee was pleased to hear that official tourism data products are evolving and encourages relevant research agencies to widely promote and assist tourism operators understand the applicability of these products to their business. Delivering data that better meets the needs of users and delivering it in a way that is easily accessible and understood could be improved by a regular survey of tourism businesses and other data users. This is a stepping stone to making better data more available to tourism operators.

Workforce

5.159The Committee notes the short and long-term workforce challenges facing the sector but is encouraged by the initiatives under way to address these challenges. The pandemic highlighted the sector’s vulnerability from its heavy reliance on temporary migrants. When borders opened, stakeholders were quick to advocate to access to these cohorts. While recognising the vulnerability, the natural attraction and interlinkages of the tourism sector with these cohorts for their demand for low and semi-skilled workers is understandable. On short term challenges, the Committee acknowledges the contribution by temporary workers like WHMs, workers sponsored under the PALM scheme, and international students and encourages the Australian Government as part of its ongoing migration reforms to factor this into its considerations.

5.160The Committee reinforces comments made in its Interim Report regarding deep concerns about workplace exploitation of international students and other temporary work visa holders.[223] The Committee further notes that programs implemented by the ACT Government to foster inclusivity and security in the community for international students could be considered by governments in other jurisdictions.

5.161Regarding longer-term challenges, the Committee is encouraged by the number of actions underway to promote greater participation and skills development in the tourism sector, and more broadly across the economy. It encourages stakeholders to participate in ongoing inquiries into workforce access and development and to take advantage of programs available to improve worker participation in the tourism sector.

Transport

5.162The Committee notes with concern that there are many ongoing challenges to facilitate competitive and efficient transport for international and domestic visitors, particularly with air transport given the complexity of international airline regulation. However, it also notes that airline capacity is very close to reaching pre-COVID-19 levels. It also is encouraged by recent announcements regarding capacity management at Sydney Airport which will look to improve accessibility, affordability, and reliability of air travel. The Committee commends the decision to have the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission monitor the prices, costs and profits of major domestic airlines through to December 2026.

5.163The Committee urges the Government to use the opportunity of the Aviation White Paper to implement policies to increase the competitiveness, accessibility and environmental friendliness of air travel into and around Australia, and continues to pursue increased capacity on international routes.

5.164The Committee heard strong concerns regarding the Australian Government’s passenger movement charge (PMC), particularly how high it is in comparison to other countries, and how it can negatively impact a price sensitive market. Given the PMC was recently increased, the Committee urges the Government to refrain from any further increases while the sector stabilises itself on the return to sustainable growth.

5.165The Committee also commends the Australian Government’s commitment to exploring First-Point-of-Entry (FPOE) status for the port of Broome for cruise vessels, and encourages opportunities for further FPOE expansion around Australia, where appropriate, to improve the potential for more cruise ship visitation to regional areas.

Visitor visas

5.166The Committee repeatedly heard that obtaining a visa to visit Australia is one of many barriers facing potential visitors and the visitor economy workforce. The Committee believes there are opportunities to explore visitor visa reform by both improving processing efficiency and to, where appropriate on a balanced risk management approach, further liberalise access to visas. For example, the Committee heard suggestions to expand multi-year visas to more countries and increase reciprocity arrangements for ‘visa on arrival’ access. The Australian Government should consider these issues as part of its ongoing reforms of the migration system as highlighted by the December 2023 Migration Review.

5.167The Committee is encouraged to see that the Australian Government is taking steps to improve visitor visa access, including increasing resourcing to the Department of Home Affairs, streamlining visa application for Pacific countries, expanding SmartGate access at airports, and increasing access to the Frequent Travellers Stream to visitors from Indonesia.

Investment and infrastructure

5.168Various stakeholders expressed concerns about the lack of new investment in accommodation and experiences, and updating and refreshing these assets, particularly in regional areas. The Committee is concerned that, left unchecked, tourism assets, particularly in regions, may disappear, leading to decline of the tourism sector in regional Australia. The Committee also noted that the rise of the short-stay accommodation industry has both benefits and disadvantages for the sector and communities, including potential negative impacts on housing availability.

5.169These are issues not easily addressed and have an impact beyond the tourism sector and the scope of this report. It is the Committee’s view that these issues should be addressed at a higher level, looking at the impact on regions holistically. In the tourism context, governments and industry must work together at a regional level to identify and agree on suitable tourism products that will attract visitors in large enough numbers to make investment viable. The Committee believes that governments can leverage grant programs to provide enabling infrastructure, drive demand and facilitate visitor access. Having these deliberations at the regional level will garner community support and ensure local knowledge of what is wanted, possible and practical can drive design and implementation.

5.170The Committee is of the view that all levels of government should continue to drive reform of development regulation to make it less complex and time consuming for investors. Jurisdictions can also learn from one another about programs that are successful in assisting investment attraction and facilitation. Inclusive destination management planning can also assist reduce objections raised in development applications for new projects.

5.171The Committee notes the lack of national data and research regarding the impact of short-stay accommodation on the tourism sector. As this is a matter primarily for state, territory and local governments, the Committee has not investigated further, but encourages policy makers in those jurisdictions to commission and consider data before introducing new regulation. The Committee also notes the obvious benefits that flow from nationally consistent regulation.

Resilience, including insurance cover

5.172Building resilience in the tourism sector is crucial given the sector’s inherent vulnerability to natural, economic and health disasters. The Committee was encouraged to see a wide acknowledgement of the issue and the steps being taken to improve resilience.

5.173The Committee was concerned to hear how the lack and high cost of insurance, particularly public liability and natural disaster cover, is impacting tourism businesses, and that ongoing cost pressures could result in more tourism businesses closing or not offering certain experiences. This impacts Australian tourism’s attractiveness and competitiveness internationally.

5.174Insurance markets are multi-layered and complex, and are impacted by diverse international and domestic factors. While it is beyond the scope of this inquiry to address these complexities, the Committee encourages the ongoing work of tourism bodies and the ICA to educate businesses about insurance markets.

5.175The Committee also encourages Treasury to engage with community, insurance and tourism stakeholders in its efforts to improve insurance affordability. The Committee is also hopeful that ongoing advocacy from bodies like the ICA to insurance providers and the global insurance industry regarding high safety standards and regulation in Australia will convince insurance providers of the reduced risk present in the Australian market, and that this is reflected in lower premiums.

Recommendations

5.176The Committee recommends that the Minister for Tourism issue a new Statement of Expectation to Tourism Australia reinforcing its primary focus on marketing to drive demand from international visitors.

5.177The Committee recommends increased communication and flexibility among agencies in the tourism sector on both state and federal levels to improve integration and cooperation.

5.178The Committee recommends that Austrade, in collaboration with Tourism Australia, State Tourism Organisations and Regional Tourism Organisations, collectively develop a charter that explains and delineates the responsibilities each level has in the tourism sector to improve clarity, communication and accountability between the agencies.

5.179This charter should be promoted and communicated effectively to ensure it is easily understood by new and established stakeholders across the sector. Organisations should take active steps to ensure that stakeholders understand the charter and have easy pathways to ask for clarification if necessary.

5.180The Committee recommends more effective communication and regular interaction with local and Regional Tourism Organisations to foster effective knowledge sharing and to enable productivity gains. Austrade, Tourism Australia and State Tourism Organisations are recommended to implement a new engagement mechanism to achieve more effective communication with Regional Tourism Organisations and Local Government Authorities regarding government policies and programs. This will also improve the capacity for federal, state and territory governments to understand the needs and concerns of regions and regional tourism businesses.

5.181This mechanism, in conjunction with the charter developed in Recommendation 21, will foster a ‘no wrong door’ environment for tourism operators seeking assistance or advice.

5.182The Committee recommends that Austrade, in consultation with Tourism Australia and State Tourism Organisations, undertakes surveys of tourism businesses every three years to understand their data and research needs, including how data and research should be presented and accessed.

5.183The Committee recommends the Australian Government, through the Aviation White Paper, prioritise implementation of policies to increase the competitiveness, accessibility and environmental friendliness of air travel into and around Australia, and continues to pursue increased capacity on international routes, including consideration of further ‘open skies’ agreements, consistent with our national interests.

5.184The Committee recommends that Treasury engages with Austrade and the tourism sector to improve access and affordability of insurance for tourism businesses.

5.185The Committee recommends that Austrade work with the tourism sector, in particular Regional Tourism Organisations, to develop resilience plans to make them less susceptible to ‘shocks’.

Footnotes

[1]Dr Gabby Walters, Associate Professor in Tourism, University of Queensland, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 42.

[2]Ms Alina Bain, Chief Executive Officer, Launceston Chamber of Commerce, Committee Hansard, 1 May 2024, p. 26.

[3]Ms Alina Bain, Chief Executive Officer, Launceston Chamber of Commerce, Committee Hansard, 1 May 2024, p. 26.

[4]Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government, Submission 51, p. [4].

[5]Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade), THRIVE 2030: The Re-Imagined Visitor Economy. A national strategy for Australia’s visitor economy recovery and return to sustainable growth 2022-2030, March 2023, p. 28, https://www.austrade.gov.au/en/news-and-analysis/publications-and-reports/thrive-2030-revised-the-re-imagined-visitor-economy-strategy, viewed 28 May 2024.

[6]Tourism Australia (TA), Submission 60, p. [1].

[7]Tourism Australia Act 2004 (Cth), sections 6 and 7.

[8]See Minister for Trade and Investment, Letter to Mr Geoff Dixon Chair TA – Statement of Expectations, 14 July 2014, https://www.tourism.australia.com/content/dam/digital/corporate/documents/tourism-australia-statement-of-expectation.pdf, viewed 27 June 2024.

[9]Mr Shane O’Hare, Chief Executive Officer, Launceston Airport, Committee Hansard, 1 May 2024, p. 42.

[10]TA, Submission 60, p. [1].

[11]TA, Submission 60, p. [14].

[12]Mr Brenton Cox, Managing Director, Adelaide Airport, Committee Hansard, 20 February 2024, p. 54.

[13]South Australia Tourism Commission (SATC), Submission 23, p. [3].

[14]Mr Scott Lovett, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Department of Industry Tourism and Trade, Northern Territory Government, Committee Hansard, 17 April 2024, pages 59–60.

[15]Mr Paul Seaman, Chair, Visit Northern Tasmania, Committee Hansard, 1 May 2024, p. 25.

[16]Mr Glenn Mickle, Tourism Manager, Orange City Council, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, p. 20; and Councillor Jason Hamling, Mayor, Orange City Council, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, p. 22.

[17]Australian Regional Tourism (ART), Submission 41, p. 3.

[18]Mr Glenn Mickle, Tourism Manager, Orange City Council, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, p. 22.

[19]Mr Sean Haylan, General Manager, Destination Central West NSW, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, pages 14 and 23.

[20]Mr Sean Haylan, General Manager, Destination Central West NSW, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, p. 19.

[21]See for example, Ms Nerida Sweetapple, General Manager, Orange360, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, pages 14 and 15; Mr Sean Haylan, General Manager, Destination Central West NSW, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, p. 14; Ms Rachelle Robb, Director, Corporate and Commercial Services, Orange City Council, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, p. 16; Ms Nerida Sweetapple, General Manager, Orange360, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, p. 19.

[22]Mr Sean Haylan, General Manager, Destination Central West NSW, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, p. 23; see also Mrs Jan McCormick, Chief Executive Officer, Major Events Gold Coast, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 33.

[23]Mr Sean Haylan, General Manager, Destination Central West NSW, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, p. 23.

[24]TA, Submission 60, p. [14].

[25]TA, Submission 60.1, p. [3].

[26]SATC, Submission 23, p. [2].

[27]See for example, Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC), Submission 44; Australian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI), Submission 80; ART, Submission 41.

[28]See for example Mr Scott Lovett, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Department of Industry Tourism and Trade, Northern Territory Government, Committee Hansard, 17 April 2024, p. 60; Mr Danial Rochford, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Central Australia, Committee Hansard, 17 April 2024, p. 24.

[29]See for example, ATEC, Submission 44, p. 3; ACCI, Submission 80, p. [3].

[30]Tourism and Transport Forum (TFF), Submission 11, p. 2.

[31]Mr Evan Hall, Chairperson, Australian Tourism Industry Council (ATIC), Committee Hansard, 13 September 2023, p. 3.

[32]TA, Come and say G’day, 2024, https://www.tourism.australia.com/en/resources/campaign-resources/come-and-say-gday.html, viewed 1 July 2024.

[33]Mr Peter Shelly, Managing Director, ATEC, Committee Hansard, 2 March 2023, p. 48.

[34]Backpacker & Youth Tourism Advisory Panel (BYTAP), Submission 20, p. [2].

[35]Mrs Margy Osmond, Chief Executive Officer, TTF, Committee Hansard, 2 March 2023, p. 48.

[36]Embassy of the Philippines, Submission 131, p. 2.

[37]Mr John Hart, Executive Chair, Tourism, ACCI, Committee Hansard, 8 March 2023, p. 10.

[38]Austrade, THRIVE 2030: The Re-Imagined Visitor Economy. A national strategy for Australia’s visitor economy recovery and return to sustainable growth 2022-2030, March 2023, p. 34, https://www.austrade.gov.au/en/news-and-analysis/publications-and-reports/thrive-2030-revised-the-re-imagined-visitor-economy-strategy, viewed 28 May 2024.

[39]Mr Tim Booth, Chief Executive, Mudgee Region Tourism, Committee Hansard, 26 June 2023, p. 46.

[40]Ms Adrienne Readings, Chair, Destination Gold Coast and General Manager, Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 49.

[41]Ms Karen Bolinger, Interim Chief Executive, Destination Gold Coast, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 49.

[42]Dr Gabby Walters, Associate Professor in Tourism, University or Queensland, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 42.

[43]National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA), Submission 120, p. 4.

[44]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 31.

[45]Austrade, Submission 73.1, p. 2.

[46]Austrade, Submission 73.2, p. 5.

[47]Tourism Research Australia (TRA), Austrade, Industry Data and Expert Analysis (IDEA) Working Group Recommendations Report April 2022-April 2023, October 2023, pages 13–14, https://www.austrade.gov.au/en/news-and-analysis/publications-and-reports/thrive-2030-industry-data-and-expert-analysis-idea-working-group-final-report, viewed 16 July 2024.

[48]Austrade, THRIVE 2030 Implementation Reporting (November 2023), November 2023, p. 7, https://www.austrade.gov.au/en/news-and-analysis/publications-and-reports/thrive-2030-strategy-implementation-update-november-2023, viewed 28 June 2024.

[49]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 15.

[50]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 15.

[51]Mr John Hart, Executive Chair, Tourism, ACCI, Committee Hansard, 8 March 2023, p. 1.

[52]Australian Outdoor Industry, Submission 31, p. [1].

[53]TRA, Austrade, State of the Industry Australia’s tourism sector in 2023, 14 June 2024, p. 65, https://www.tra.gov.au/en/economic-analysis/state-of-the-industry, viewed 17 June 2024.

[54]TRA, Austrade, State of the Industry Australia’s tourism sector in 2023, 14 June 2024, p. 65, https://www.tra.gov.au/en/economic-analysis/state-of-the-industry, viewed 17 June 2024.

[55]Ms Tanya Lipus, Manager of City Economy, City of Gold Coast, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 74.

[56]Ms Esther Anderson, Senior Research and Policy Officer, Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 61.

[57]Ms Esther Anderson, Senior Research and Policy Officer, QTIC, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 61.

[58]Tourism Western Australia, Submission 10, p. 1.

[59]Austrade, Opportunities for the Visitor Economy, June 2021, p. 79, https://www.austrade.gov.au/en/news-and-analysis/publications-and-reports/opportunities-for-the-visitor-economy-report, viewed 19 June 2024.

[60]Austrade, Opportunities for the Visitor Economy, June 2021, p. 78, https://www.austrade.gov.au/en/news-and-analysis/publications-and-reports/opportunities-for-the-visitor-economy-report, viewed 19 June 2024.

[61]Austrade, THRIVE 2030: The Re-Imagined Visitor Economy. A national strategy for Australia’s visitor economy recovery and return to sustainable growth 2022-2030, March 2023, p. 36, https://www.austrade.gov.au/en/news-and-analysis/publications-and-reports/thrive-2030-revised-the-re-imagined-visitor-economy-strategy, viewed 28 May 2024.

[62]Austrade, Submission 73.2, pages 6–7.

[63]Austrade, Reimagining the Visitor Economy – Expert Panel Report, September 2021, p. 28, https://www.austrade.gov.au/content/dam/austrade-assets/global/wip/austrade/documents/reimagining-the-visitor-economy-expert-panel-report.pdf, viewed 16 July 2024.

[64]Commonwealth of Australia, Department of Home Affairs, Review of the Migration System: Final Report, March 2023, p. 54, https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/reports-and-pubs/files/review-migration-system-final-report.pdf, viewed 16 July 2024.

[65]Department of Home Affairs, Working Holiday Maker (WHM) program, undated, https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/what-we-do/whm-program/overview, viewed 8 April 2024.

[66]Austrade, Submission 7, p. 9.

[67]BYTAP, Submission 20.1, p. [1].

[68]BYTAP, Submission 20, p. [1].

[69]Regional Development Australia (RDA), Submission 116, p. 5.

[70]ATEC, Submission 44, p. 3.

[71]SATC, Submission 23, pages [2 and 5].

[72]SATC, Submission 23, p. [4].

[73]Embassy of the Philippines, Submission 131, p. 2.

[74]Adventure Queensland, Submission 121, p. [1].

[75]ATEC, Submission 44, p. 3.

[76]Mr John Hart, Executive Chair, Tourism, ACCI, Committee Hansard, 8 March 2023, p. 3.

[77]BYTAP, Submission 20, p. [1]; and Adventure Queensland, Submission 121, pages [1–2].

[78]ATEC, Submission 44, p. 3.

[79]Commonwealth of Australia, Department of Home Affairs, Review of the Migration System: Final Report, March 2023, p. 9, https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/reports-and-pubs/files/review-migration-system-final-report.pdf, viewed 16 July 2024.

[80]Commonwealth of Australia, Department of Home Affairs, Review of the Migration System: Final Report, March 2023, p. 59, https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/reports-and-pubs/files/review-migration-system-final-report.pdf, viewed 16 July 2024.

[81]Accommodation Australia, Submission 122, pages 3 and 8.

[82]Adventure Queensland, Submission 121, p. 1.

[83]Commonwealth of Australia, Migration Strategy: Getting migration working for the nation, December 2023, pages84–88, https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/programs-subsite/migration-strategy/Documents/migration-strategy.pdf, viewed 16 July 2024.

[84]Commonwealth of Australia, Department of Home Affairs, Supporting strong and sustainable regions, Review of Regional Migration Settings Discussion Paper – June 2024, June 2024, p. 12, https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/reports-and-pubs/PDFs/supporting_strong_and_sustainable_regions.pdf, viewed 16 July 2024.

[85]Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade, Parliament of Australia, Inquiry into Australia’s tourism and international education sectors, ‘Quality and Integrity – the Quest for Sustainable Growth: Interim Report into International Education’, October 2023, https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Foreign_Affairs_Defence_and_Trade/Tourismandeducation/Interim_Report_-_Inquiry_into_Australias_International_Education_Sector, viewed 16 July 2024.

[86]Accommodation Australia, Submission 122, pages 18–19.

[87]BYTAP, Submission 20, p. [1].

[88]ATEC, Submission 44, p. 5.

[89]New South Wales (NSW) Government, Submission 51, p. 3.

[90]Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), Submission 58, pages [6 and 8].

[91]QTIC, Submission 39, p. 4.

[92]City of Geraldton, Submission 133, p. [3].

[93]ATEC, Submission 44, p. 5.

[94]Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade, Parliament of Australia, Inquiry into Australia’s tourism and international education sectors, ‘Quality and Integrity – the Quest for Sustainable Growth: Interim Report into International Education’, October 2023, Chapter 5, https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Foreign_Affairs_Defence_and_Trade/Tourismandeducation/Interim_Report_-_Inquiry_into_Australias_International_Education_Sector, viewed 16 July 2024.

[95]Ms Kareena Arthy, Deputy Director-General, Chief Minister, Treasury and Economic Development, ACT Government, Committee Hansard, 15 May 2024, p. 4.

[96]Parliament of Australia, The Pacific Australia Labour Mobility scheme: a quick guide, September 2023, https://www.aph.gov.au/About_Parliament/Parliamentary_departments/Parliamentary_Library/pubs/rp/rp2324/Quick_Guides/PALMscheme, viewed 1 July 2024.

[97]Mr John Hart, Executive Chair, Tourism, ACCI, Committee Hansard, 8 March 2023, pages 5–6.

[98]Tourism Western Australia, Submission 10, p. 1.

[99]See for example, Her Excellency Ms Hinauri Petana, High Commissioner, Samoa High Commission, Committee Hansard, 7 February 2024, pages 6–7.

[100]ACCI, Submission 80, p. 12.

[101]ACCI, ACCI Tourism Employment White Paper Submission, December 2022, https://www.australianchamber.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/2022-12-07-ACCI-Tourism-Employment-White-Paper-Final.pdf, viewed 25 June 2024.

[102]Accommodation Australia, Submission 122, p. 13.

[103]Austrade, Submission 73, pages 12 and 15.

[104]Mr Shaun de Bruyn, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Industry Council of South Australia (TICSA), Committee Hansard, 20 February 2024, p. 29.

[105]ACCI, ACCI Tourism Employment White Paper Submission, December 2022, https://www.australianchamber.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/2022-12-07-ACCI-Tourism-Employment-White-Paper-Final.pdf, viewed 25 June 2024, pages 12–13.

[106]TTF, Submission 11, p. 2; see also Australian Federation of Travel Agents (AFTA), Submission 92, p. 9.

[107]Accommodation Australia, Submission 122, p. 13.

[108]TTF, Submission 11, p. 1.

[109]TTF, Submission 11, p. 1.

[110]Accommodation Australia, Submission 122, p. 8.

[111]Accommodation Australia, Submission 122, pages 8 and 9.

[112]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 15.

[113]Austrade, THRIVE 2030 Implementation Reporting (November 2023), November 2023, p. 12, https://www.austrade.gov.au/content/dam/austrade-assets/global/wip/austrade/documents/Thrive/thrive-2030-implementation-report-november-2023.pdf, viewed 26 June 2024.

[114]SATC, Submission 23, p. [2].

[115]Destination Gold Coast, Submission 14, p. [2].

[116]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 15.

[117]Australian Airports Association (AAA), Submission 76, p. 1; see also Mr James Goodwin, Chief Executive, AAA, Committee Hansard, 29 March 2023, p. 1.

[118]AAA, Submission 76, p. 3; see also QTIC, Submission 39, p. 3.

[119]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 15.

[120]TRA, Austrade, State of the Industry Australia’s tourism sector in 2023, 14 June 2024, p. 61, https://www.tra.gov.au/en/economic-analysis/state-of-the-industry, viewed 17 June 2024.

[121]Bureau of Infrastructure and Transport Research Economics (BITRE), Yearbook 2023: Australian Infrastructure and Transport Statistics, Statistical Report, 2023, p. 21, https://www.bitre.gov.au/sites/default/files/documents/bitre-yearbook-2023.pdf, viewed 16 July 2024.

[122]Mr Dean Long, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA), Committee Hansard, 18 October 2023, pages 3–4.

[123]Mr James Goodwin, Chief Executive, AAA, Committee Hansard, 29 March 2023, p. 1.

[124]Mr Dean Long, Chief Executive Officer, ATIA, Committee Hansard, 18 October 2023, p. 3.

[125]Mr Dean Long, Chief Executive Officer, ATIA, Committee Hansard, 18 October 2023, p. 3.

[126]The Hon Catherine King MP, Media Release: ‘Reforming Sydney Airport slots to boost efficiency, competition and consumers outcomes’, 21 February 2024, https://minister.infrastructure.gov.au/c-king/media-release/reforming-sydney-airport-slots-boost-efficiency-competition-and-consumers-outcomes#:~:text=The%20Government%20is%20modernising%20the,field%20in%20slot%20allocation%20processes, viewed 16 July 2024.

[127]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 3; and TFF, Submission 11, pages 1–2.

[128]Western Sydney Airport Submission 114, p. [2].

[129]Broome Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI), Submission 115, p. 6; and RDA, Submission 116, p. 4; see also Mr James Goodwin, Chief Executive, AAA, Committee Hansard, 29 March 2023, p. 2.

[130]BCCI, Submission 115, p. 6.

[131]Mr James Goodwin, Chief Executive, AAA, Committee Hansard, 29 March 2023, p. 3.

[132]Mr John Hart, Executive Chair, Tourism, ACCI, Committee Hansard, 8 March 2023, p. 7.

[133]TFF, Submission 11, pages 1–2.

[134]Singapore Airlines (SIA) Group, Submission 128, p. [1].

[135]Accommodation Australia, Submission 122, p. 15.

[136]City of Gold Coast, Submission 105, p. [2]; and Ms Tanya Lipus, Manager of City Economy, City of Gold Coast, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 74.

[137]AAA, Submission 76, p. 3.

[138]Dr Gabby Walters, Associate Professor in Tourism, University of Queensland, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 38.

[139]Ms Esther Anderson, Senior Research and Policy Officer, QTIC, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 61.

[140]AAA, Submission 76, pages 5–6.

[141]Destination Gold Coast, Submission 14, pp. [2­–3]; Ms Karen Bolinger, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Destination Gold Coast, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 46.

[142]NSW Government, Submission 53, p. 3.

[143]AAA, Submission 76, pages 3–4.

[144]Mrs Margy Osmond, Chief Executive Officer, TTF, Committee Hansard, 2 March 2023, p. 37.

[145]Ms Adrienne Readings, Chair, Destination Gold Coast and General Manager, Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre,Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 47.

[146]SATC, Submission 23, p. [4].

[147]Ms Karen Bolinger, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Destination Gold Coast, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 54.

[148]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 15.

[149]Mr James Goodwin, Chief Executive, AAA, Committee Hansard, 29 March 2023, pages 2 and 6.

[150]Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia, Submission 27, p. [1].

[151]CLIA Australasia, Submission 27, pages [1–2].

[152]CLIA Australasia, Submission 27, pages [3 and 5].

[153]CLIA Australasia, Submission 27, p. [5].

[154]Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, ‘First points of entry and non-non first points of entry’, May 2024, https://www.agriculture.gov.au/biosecurity-trade/aircraft-vessels-military/vessels/first-point-entry-and-non-first-point-entry, viewed 10 April 2024.

[155]RDA-K, Submission 116, p. 4.

[156]CLIA Australasia, Submission 27, pages [2 and 6].

[157]BCCI, Submission 115, p. 6; RDA, Submission 116, p. 4; and Shire of Broome, Submission 123, p. 2.

[158]BCCI, Submission 115, p. 6.

[159]Shire of Broome, Submission 123, p. 2.

[160]Government of Western Australia, ‘Green light toward enhanced border services at Port of Broome’, Joint media statement, 26 February 2024, https://www.wa.gov.au/government/media-statements/Cook-Labor-Government/Joint-media-statement---Green-light-toward-enhanced-border-services-at-Port-of-Broome-20240225#:~:text=Broome%2C%20Western%20Australia.-,The%20Australian%20Government%20has%20given%20the%20green%20light%20for%20work,for%20the%20Port%20of%20Broome, viewed 16 July 2024.

[161]AFTA, Submission 92, p. 14.

[162]CLIA Australasia, Submission 27, p. [6].

[163]Australian Border Force, Crossing the border, 1 July 2024, https://www.abf.gov.au/entering-and-leaving-australia/crossing-the-border/passenger-movement/passenger-movement-charge-(pmc)#:~:text=The%20Passenger%20Movement%20Charge%20(PMC,the%20person%20returns%20to%20Australia, viewed 8 July 2024.

[164]Mr Dean Long, Chief Executive, AFTA, Committee Hansard, 18 October 2023, p. 3.

[165]AFTA, Submission 92, p. 13.

[166]See for example TTF, Submission 11, p. 3; ACCI, Submission 80, [p. 6]; AFTA, Submission 92, p. 13; Mr Shaun de Bruyn, Chief Executive Officer, TICSA, Committee Hansard, 20 February 2024, p. 26; Ms Karen Bolinger, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Destination Gold Coast, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 46.

[167]Mr Dean Long, Chief Executive, AFTA, Committee Hansard, 18 October 2023, p. 3.

[168]Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade, Parliament of Australia, Inquiry into Australia’s tourism and international education sectors, ‘Quality and Integrity – the Quest for Sustainable Growth: Interim Report into International Education’, October 2023, pages 104–147, https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Foreign_Affairs_Defence_and_Trade/Tourismandeducation/Interim_Report_-_Inquiry_into_Australias_International_Education_Sector, viewed 16 July 2024.

[169]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 3.

[170]Austrade, Submission 73, pages 3 and 15.

[171]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 17.

[172]Ms Ingrid Fraser, Associate Director, Workforce and Tourism Policy, ACCI, Committee Hansard, 8 March 2023, p. 3; and Mr John Hart, Executive Chair, Tourism, ACCI, Committee Hansard, 8 March 2023, p. 7.

[173]Mr Dean Long, Chief Executive Officer, ATIA, Committee Hansard, 18 October 2023, p. 3.

[174]Mr Brenton Cox, Managing Director, Adelaide Airport Ltd, Committee Hansard, 20 February 2024, p. 55.

[175]City of Gold Coast, Submission 105, p. [2].

[176]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 17.

[177]Mrs Margy Osmond, Chief Executive Officer, TTF, Committee Hansard, 2 March 2023, p. 47.

[178]Mr John Hart, Executive Chair, Tourism, ACCI, Committee Hansard, 8 March 2023, p. 3.

[179]AAA, Submission 76, pages 4–5.

[180]Embassy of the Philippines, Submission 131, p. 1.

[181]HE Mr Samson Vilvil Fare, High Commissioner, Vanuatu High Commission, Committee Hansard, 7 February 2024, p. 6.

[182]See for example HE Ms Hinauri Petana, High Commissioner, Samoa High Commission, and; HE Mr Robert Sisilo, High Commissioner, Samoa High Commission, Committee Hansard, 7 February 2024, pages 4 and 6

[183]HE Mr Robert Sisilo, High Commissioner, Samoa High Commission, Committee Hansard, 7 February 2024, p. 7.

[184]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 17.

[185]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 17.

[186]Mr John Hart, Executive Chair, Tourism, ACCI, Committee Hansard, 8 March 2023, p. 7.

[187]Ms Karen Bolinger, Interim Chief Executive Officer, Destination Gold Coast, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 46.

[188]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 17.

[189]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 15.

[190]ACCI, Submission 80, p. [4].

[191]See for example Mrs Carolyn Turnbull, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Western Australia, Committee Hansard, 22 August 2023, p. 46; Mr Andrew Bullock, Councillor, Australian Hotels Association, South Australian Branch, Committee Hansard, 20 February 2024, p. 68; Mr Terry Karamaloudis, Manager of Tourism and Major Events, City of Greater Bendigo, Committee Hansard, 4 October 2023, p. 20.

[192]Mr David O’Malley, Chief Executive Officer, Australia’s Coral Coast, Committee Hansard, 22 August 2023, p. 45.

[193]Mr Andrew Bullock, Councillor, Australian Hotels Association, South Australian Branch, Committee Hansard, 20 February 2024, p. 68.

[194]Ms Joanne Birley, Industry Development Manager, Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism, Committee Hansard, 3 October 2023, p. 10.

[195]TTF, Submission 11, p. 2.

[196]Mr Evan Hall, Chairperson, ATIC, Committee Hansard, 13 September 2023, p. 3.

[197]QTIC, Submission 39, p. 2.

[198]Mr Sarah Clark, Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Tasmania, Committee Hansard, 1 May 2024, p. 48.

[199]Mr Andrew Bullock, Councillor, Australian Hotels Association, South Australian Branch, Committee Hansard, 20 February 2024, p. 67.

[200]Airbnb, Submission 56, p. 1.

[201]Airbnb, Submission 56, p. 1.

[202]Airbnb, Submission 56, p. 4.

[203]Tourism WA, Submission 10, p. 2.

[204]City of Gold Coast, Submission 105, p. [3]; and Ms Tanya Lipus, Manager of City Economy, City of Gold Coast, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 74.

[205]Accommodation Australia, Submission 122, p. 17.

[206]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 16; see also Ms Esther Anderson, Senior Research and Policy Officer, QTIC, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 61.

[207]Ecotourism Australia (EA), Submission 117, p. 4.

[208]EA, Submission 117, p. 5.

[209]City of Geraldton, Submission 133, p. [5].

[210]Austrade, THRIVE 2030 Implementation Reporting (November 2023), November 2023, p. 22, https://www.austrade.gov.au/en/news-and-analysis/publications-and-reports/thrive-2030-strategy-implementation-update-november-2023, viewed 28 June 2024.

[211]Austrade, THRIVE 2030: The Re-Imagined Visitor Economy. A national strategy for Australia’s visitor economy recovery and return to sustainable growth 2022-2030, March 2023, p. 68, https://www.austrade.gov.au/en/news-and-analysis/publications-and-reports/thrive-2030-revised-the-re-imagined-visitor-economy-strategy, viewed 28 May 2024.

[212]Australian Small Business and Family Enterprise Ombudsman (ASBFEO), Submission 135, pages 1–2.

[213]Ms Esther Anderson, Senior Research and Policy Officer, QTIC, Committee Hansard, 17 May 2023, p. 61.

[214]Mr Shaun de Bruyn, Chief Executive Officer, TICSA, Committee Hansard, 20 February 2024, p. 29.

[215]ASBFEO, Submission 135, p. 2.

[216]EA, Submission 117, pages 4–5.

[217]Austrade, Submission 73, p. 17.

[218]Australian Outdoor Industry, Submission 31, pages [4 and 6].

[219]Ms Alexandra Hordern, General Manager, Regulatory and Consumer Policy, Insurance Council of Australia (ICA), Committee Hansard, 27 March 2024, p. 1.

[220]Ms Alexandra Hordern, General Manager, Regulatory and Consumer Policy, ICA, Committee Hansard, 27 March 2024, p. 2.

[221]Austrade, Submission 73.3, pages 2–3.

[222]Ms Alexandra Hordern, General Manager, Regulatory and Consumer Policy, ICA, Committee Hansard, 27 March 2024, p. 1.

[223]Joint Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade, Parliament of Australia, Inquiry into Australia’s tourism and international education sectors, ‘Quality and Integrity – the Quest for Sustainable Growth: Interim Report into International Education’, October 2023, pages 104-147, https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Joint/Foreign_Affairs_Defence_and_Trade/Tourismandeducation/Interim_Report_-_Inquiry_into_Australias_International_Education_Sector, viewed 16 July 2024.