Australia's tourism not reaching full potential

Australia's tourism not reaching full potential
By admin


According ABS’s latest overseas arrivals and departures figures the number of international visitors coming to Australia has risen 2.9% in August.

However, Tourism and Transport Forum chief executive officer Margy Osmond said the growth could be even better.

“The growth in overseas arrivals to Australia shows that we have plenty to offer international visitors, with an additional 509,000 arriving here over the past 12 months,” Osmond said.

Whilst China continues to make a significant contribution towards Australia’s international visiting numbers (12.2% over the year), we are falling behind countries such as Canada and the USA who are recording figures of 30% and 23% respectively.

“Independent travellers from China wanting an Australian visa must pay $130, provide considerable evidence, complete a 15-page paper-based application in English, and wait up to 15 days for processing.” Osmond said.

“By contrast, a potential visitor from the US, the UK or even Hong Kong can simply fill in a quick online form and receive an electronic visa for $20. 

“Reducing the cost and complexity of our visa system will improve Australia’s competitiveness by removing a key barrier to travel.

“These reforms have been identified as a ‘game changer’ that can maximise the potential of the visitor economy as an economic driver for Australiaand help Australian tourism achieve its Tourism 2020 goal of doubling overnight expenditure to $140 billion a year.” 

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

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