With the news that Tasmanians will be heading to the polls on March 23, the TICT will work to keep you up to date with developments throughout the campaign as they relate to the visitor economy.

At a time when the costs of doing business are increasing, workforce challenges remain, and the cost of living continues to bite, this election will be important. The TICT wants to see strategies presented by all sides of politics to address these critical issues and to create an environment where it’s easier to do business in this State.

For our industry, this election will be about the vision our leaders provide for Tasmania’s tourism future. Our 2030 Visitor Economy Strategy provides a solid framework and action list, but what we know is that we must continue to invest. We cannot afford to be complacent. Our regions and Tasmanian jobs rely on tourism. Continued investment is required in both demand generation and product innovation.

That’s why the TICT will be advocating strongly for our leaders to focus on issues including;

• Investment into demand generation activities and events, ensuring our state remains front of mind in the face of fierce competition;
  
• Initiatives to ensure our visitor economy continues to have a positive impact on our economy, community and environment;
  
• Ensuring we are ready to maximise the opportunity delivered by the new Spirit of Tasmania ferries;
  
• Product innovation aligned to our regional dispersal and positive impact goals; and
  
• Implementation of critical parks infrastructure projects across the state, including delivering on a range of already committed projects with clear timeframes.

The TICT will also be exploring how we can bring you the ideas and opinions of the parties’ tourism spokespeople through operator webinars – so please watch this space for more details.

While the election is underway, the work of the TICT continues - so please visit the website for more information about the recent launch of our Top Tourism Towns program for 2024. We can’t wait to take our towns to the national stage again this year, as we believe we have the best towns in the country!

Amy Hills - Chief Executive Officer, Tourism Industry Council Tasmania