PREMIER WILL HODGMAN ARTICLE
Tasmania’s hospitality industry is a cornerstone of our great visitor economy that my Government strongly supports. Our visitor economy continues to perform strongly, with latest visitor survey data showing the number of visitors to the state remained steady at 1.32 million, and visitors spent a record $2.5 billion, which is up 4 per cent on the previous year. But we can’t take our success for granted. Our tourism and hospitality industry is stronger than ever before, employing around 42,800 Tasmanians – about 17 per cent of our total employment, which is the highest level of any state in Australia. And Deloitte Access forecasts visitor spending could more than double to $5 billion a year, with 5,000 to 10,000 more jobs in the visitor economy created by 2030. In planning for future growth it’s time to refresh our marketing brand. We have launched the Tasmania – Come Down For Air campaign that positions our state as the antidote to the stresses of modern life, and sets Tasmania apart from the pack. We are developing the next stage of the T21 Visitor Economy Strategy, which will include close consultation with the THA. To spread growth across the State and ensure we continue to invest in new products and attractions, to keep people coming to the state, we have launched the Regional Tourism Attraction Loan Scheme that provides low interest loans of up to $1 million for tourism operators to
develop new products, experiences and attractions. Our vibrant hospitality sector is also an important part of what makes life here so special for Tasmanians, so we want to continue to develop and support the industry, and make a visit to a pub or a venue the most enjoyable and safe experience. We are partnering with the THA to deliver the Stop the Coward’s Punch campaign, with new laws to crack down on ‘one punch’ violent offenders. We are committed to protecting the safety of people in our hospitality venues, whether patrons or professionals. These senseless and sometimes fatal attacks are often unprovoked and indiscriminate, but can leave lasting and devastating effects on the victim, their families and our community. The Government recently released its draft Bill and we are now seeking feedback on the proposed legislative changes, which ends Monday 4 November 2019. Submissions can be made via the Department of Justice website www.justice.tas.gov.au Finally, my sincere thanks to Steve and the team at the THA for all their great work over the year, and on completing the Tasmanian Hospitality Industry Development Plan, which will support further growth in the sector across the State. And to all our great hospitality business operators, best wishes for a prosperous summer!
NORMALLY WE THROW THE TIDDLERS BACK
Flinders Island Food and Crayfish Festival
discovertasmania.com.au/air
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